DEPUTY PRIME MINISTER

Lords Reform Bill

Tom Watson: To ask the Deputy Prime Minister how many responses he has received to his consultation on the draft House of Lords Reform Bill to date.

Mark Harper: The Government invited comments on the proposals in their White Paper and draft Bill on House of Lords reform, rather than launching a formal consultation. As of 18 August, the Government have received 65 representations.

News Corporation

Steve Rotheram: To ask the Deputy Prime Minister when he last met (a) James Murdoch, (b) Rebekah Brooks and (c) Andy Coulson.

Nicholas Clegg: The Government are committed to publishing details of meetings with newspapers and other media proprietors, editors and senior executives.
	Details of my meetings held with proprietors, editors and senior media executives, including James Murdoch and Rebekah Brooks, since the formation of the Government can be found on
	www.cabinetoffice.gov.uk
	I have had no meetings with Andy Coulson since he resigned from No. 10.

INDEPENDENT PARLIAMENTARY STANDARDS AUTHORITY COMMITTEE

Director of Policy

Stewart Jackson: To ask the hon. Member for Broxbourne, representing the Speaker's Committee for the Independent Parliamentary Standards Authority, what the roles and responsibilities are of the (a) Director of Policy and (b) Head of Policy of the Independent Parliamentary Standards Authority; and if he will make a statement.

Charles Walker: The information requested falls within the responsibility of the Independent Parliamentary Standards Authority. I have asked IPSA to reply.
	Letter from Scott Woolveridge, dated 5 September 2011
	As Acting Chief Executive of the Independent Parliamentary Standards Authority (IPSA), I have been asked to reply to your Parliamentary Question asking about the roles and responsibilities of the Director of Policy and Head of Policy at IPSA.
	The Director of Policy's overall role is to oversee the strategic direction and management of policy development in IPSA, making recommendations to the Chief Executive and the IPSA Board. The Head of Policy is the Director's deputy, and leads the policy team day to day. The team as a whole comprises four people, and as a small team, responsibilities are carried out flexibly.
	The policy team advises the IPSA Board on a range of policies and issues. It has taken the lead in the development and maintenance of the MPs' Expenses Scheme, and associated reviews and consultation, including the current review of MPs' staffing needs. The team will lead the policy work on MPs' pay and, when IPSA receives the powers, MPs' pensions.
	The Director also has a role as a member of the IPSA executive's senior leadership team, providing direction and support to the organisation as a whole. The Director chairs IPSA's contingency panel, which meets weekly, to consider any contingency applications from MPs. The Head of Policy will chair the panel meetings in the Director's absence.

Government Procurement Card

Charlie Elphicke: To ask the hon. Member for Broxbourne, representing the Speaker's Committee for the Independent Parliamentary Standards Authority, how many staff of the Independent Parliamentary Standards Authority hold (a) a Government Procurement Card and (b) other corporate charge cards.

Charles Walker: The information requested falls within the responsibility of the Independent Parliamentary Standards Authority. I have asked IPSA to reply.
	Letter from Scott Woolveridge, dated 5 September 2011: 
	As Acting Chief Executive of the Independent Parliamentary Standards Authority, I have been asked to reply to your Parliamentary Question asking how many staff of the Independent Parliamentary Standards Authority hold (a) a Government Procurement Card and (b) other corporate charge cards.
	Two members of staff at IPSA hold Government Procurement Cards. No other corporate charge cards are used.

Members: Allowances

Adam Afriyie: To ask the hon. Member for Broxbourne, representing the Speaker's Committee for the Independent Parliamentary Standards Authority, pursuant to the Answer of 4 July 2011, Official Report, columns 956-7W, on Members: allowances, whether the Independent Parliamentary Standards Authority intends to make an assessment of the effectiveness of its schemes in restoring public confidence and trust in (a) hon. Members first elected in May 2010, (b) other hon. Members and (c) Parliament.

Charles Walker: holding answer 11 July 2011
	The information requested falls within the responsibility of the Independent Parliamentary Standards Authority. I have asked IPSA to reply.
	Letter from Scott Woolveridge ,  dated 5 September 2011: 
	As Acting Chief Executive of the Independent Parliamentary Standards Authority, I have been asked to reply to your Parliamentary Question asking whether IPSA intends to make an assessment of the effectiveness of its schemes in restoring public confidence and trust in (a) hon. Members first elected in May 2010, (b) other hon. Members and (c) Parliament.
	Through the MPs' Expenses Scheme, IPSA has put in place a set of rules, underpinned by the principle of independent regulation, which, it believes will contribute to the restoration of public confidence in the manner in which MPs' expenses and costs are reimbursed.
	We commissioned an opinion poll as part of the first annual review of the MPs' Expenses Scheme in November 2010. We will carry out further such surveys as part of our regular review of the scheme. In doing so, we have no plans to distinguish between MPs elected in 2010 and other MPs.
	A recent survey commissioned by the National Audit Office found that 55% of the general public thought that the situation with regard to MPs' expenses had improved in the last year.

Members: Allowances

Andrew Griffiths: To ask the hon. Member for Broxbourne, representing the Speaker's Committee for the Independent Parliamentary Standards Authority, what the average time taken by the Independent Parliamentary Standards Authority was to transfer funds to an hon. Member after receipt of an expense claim in the latest period for which figures are available.

Charles Walker: The information requested falls within the responsibility of the Independent Parliamentary Standards Authority. I have asked IPSA to reply.
	Letter from Scott Woolveridge, dated September 2011
	As Acting Chief Executive of the Independent Parliamentary Standards Authority, I have been asked to reply to your Parliamentary Question asking what the average time taken by the Independent Parliamentary Standards Authority was to transfer funds to an hon. Member after receipt of an expense claim in the latest period for which figures are available.
	In July 2011, the latest month for which figures are available, the average time to process claims from receipt of evidence to reimbursement by bank transfer was between six and eight working days. During this period, 98.61% of claims requiring reimbursement were processed within the 12 working day target.
	As of the week commencing 8 August 2011, for which provisional figures are available, the average time to process claims from receipt of evidence to reimbursement by bank transfer was between three and six working days. During this period, 98.75% of claims requiring reimbursement were processed within the 12 working day target.

Members: Allowances

Adam Afriyie: To ask the hon. Member for Broxbourne, representing the Speaker's Committee for the Independent Parliamentary Standards Authority, pursuant to the answer of 14 July 2011, Official Report, column 437W, on Members: allowances, what assessment the Independent Parliamentary Standards Authority has made of the (a) cost-effectiveness and (b) impact on public confidence in Parliament of (i) real-time publication of claims and (ii) annual publication of claims.

Charles Walker: The information requested falls within the responsibility of the Independent Parliamentary Standards Authority. I have asked IPSA to reply.
	Letter from Scott Woolveridge, dated 5 September 2011: 
	As Acting Chief Executive of the Independent Parliamentary Standards Authority, I have been asked to reply to your Parliamentary Question asking pursuant to the Answer of 14 July 2011, Official Report, column 437W, on Members: allowances, what assessment the Independent Parliamentary Standards Authority has made of the (a) cost-effectiveness and (b) impact on public confidence in Parliament of (i) real-time publication of claims and (ii) annual publication of claims.
	IPSA assessed the cost-effectiveness of real-time publication of claims as compared to monthly, bi-monthly or quarterly publication of claims and found that real-time publication would be considerably more costly than bi-monthly publication. Our view is that less frequent publication would not be in the interest of either the public or of MPs.
	IPSA also publishes annualised totals once each year. It would be neither practical nor cost-effective to publish totals more regularly, nor would it provide an accurate picture of expenditure.
	More specific data on the comparative costs of different approaches to publication is available in IPSA's submission to the Speaker's Committee for the IPSA (11 SCIPSA 24, available via the Committee's webpage at www.parliament.uk/scipsa).
	IPSA’s approach to public confidence is set out in its answer to parliamentary question 62624 (Schemes), 13 July 2011, Official Report, column 395W.

Members: Allowances

Adam Afriyie: To ask the hon. Member for Broxbourne, representing the Speaker's Committee for the Independent Parliamentary Standards Authority, whether the Independent Parliamentary Standards Authority uses any measure to assess the effect of its schemes on public confidence in Parliament; and whether any such measurements have been made.

Charles Walker: The information requested falls within the responsibility of the Independent Parliamentary Standards Authority. I have asked IPSA to reply.
	Letter from Scott Woolveridge, dated 5 September 2011
	As Acting Chief Executive of the Independent Parliamentary Standards Authority, I have been asked to reply to your Parliamentary Question asking whether the Independent Parliamentary Standards Authority uses any measure to assess the effect of its schemes on public confidence in Parliament; and whether any such measurements have been made.
	IPSA's approach to public confidence is set out in its answer to PQ 62624 (Schemes) on 13 July 2011, Official Report, column 395W.
	Through the MPs' Expenses Scheme, IPSA has put in place a set of rules, underpinned by the principle of independent regulation, which we believe will contribute to the restoration of public confidence in the manner in which MPs' expenses and costs are reimbursed.
	We undertook a poll of the public as part of the annual review of the MPs' Expenses Scheme in November 2010 and a majority of respondents believed that IPSA would ensure that MPs were only paid legitimate expenses. We will carry out further surveys as part of our regular review of the expenses scheme.
	A recent survey commissioned by the National Audit Office found that 55% of the general public felt that the situation with regard to MPs' expenses had improved in the last year.

Members: Allowances

Adam Afriyie: To ask the hon. Member for Broxbourne, representing the Speaker's Committee for the Independent Parliamentary Standards Authority, what assessment the Independent Parliamentary Standards Authority has made of the findings of the National Audit Office's survey of hon. Members published on 7 July 2011 in respect of the proportion of hon. Members who have decided not to claim expenses to which they believed they were entitled since the inception of the administration of hon. Members' expenses by this Authority.

Charles Walker: The information requested falls within the responsibility of the Independent Parliamentary Standards Authority. I have asked IPSA to reply.
	Letter from Scott Woolveridge, dated 5 September 2011
	As Acting Chief Executive of the Independent Parliamentary Standards Authority, I have been asked to reply to your Parliamentary Question asking what assessment the Independent Parliamentary Standards Authority has made of the findings of the National Audit Office's survey of hon. Members published on 7 July 2011 in respect of the proportion of hon. Members who have decided not to claim expenses to which they believed they were entitled since the inception of the administration of hon. Members expenses by this Authority.
	We will consider the findings of the survey when we respond to the report of the Public Accounts Committee later this year and when considering future improvements to the MPs' Expenses Scheme and the system which we operate.
	The National Audit Office noted in their report that the principal reason cited by MPs for not claiming an expense was that “it was only a small claim”. We also note the NAO's recommendation to MPs that
	“MPs should submit claims for all expenditure they legitimately incur as part of their work, and should make contingency claims when the total value of their needs exceeds the budget available to them. Unless they do so, it will be difficult for IPSA to understand the real cost of supporting MPs to do their jobs well”.
	This supports the advice that IPSA has given to MPs since we began operations.

Members: Allowances

Adam Afriyie: To ask the hon. Member for Broxbourne, representing the Speaker's Committee for the Independent Parliamentary Standards Authority, what consideration the Independent Parliamentary Standards Authority has given to requiring published data to be comparable, disaggregated and standardised in formulating its policy on claims publication.

Charles Walker: The information requested falls within the responsibility of the Independent Parliamentary Standards Authority. I have asked IPSA to reply.
	Letter from Scott Woolveridge, dated 5 September 2011
	As Acting Chief Executive of the Independent Parliamentary Standards Authority, I have been asked to reply to your Parliamentary Question asking what consideration the Independent Parliamentary Standards Authority has given to requiring published data to be comparable, disaggregated and standardised in formulating its policy on claims publication.
	IPSA gave consideration to these points when formulating its publication policy.
	We now publish data on expense claims made on a bi-monthly basis on our website
	www.parliamentarystandards.org.uk
	These data are published in a standard, disaggregated format, which ensures that they are easily comparable.
	We have also published aggregated data for the financial year 2010/11, which allows for further useful comparison.

WALES

Departmental Procurement

Owen Smith: To ask the Secretary of State for Wales what methodology her Department used to estimate savings to the public purse made in respect of its procurement and purchasing since May 2010.

David Jones: As a small Government Department the Wales Office uses the procurement buying power of a large Government Department, the Ministry of Justice, to ensure maximum savings to the public purse.
	Upon her arrival the Secretary of State introduced a standard class rail travel rule for Ministers and all staff at the Wales Office. This policy has more than halved the Department's travel costs for last year, saving us more than £91,000 compared to 2009-10.
	In addition to this, the introduction of a new government contract for hotel bookings has also saved the Department over £12,000 in 2010-11 compared to the previous financial year.

Energy Supply

Jonathan Edwards: To ask the Secretary of State for Wales whether she has met (a) Welsh Government Ministers and (b) the Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change regarding the devolution of decision-making on consent for energy projects with a generating capacity of 50 to 100 megawatts.

Cheryl Gillan: I have regular discussions with the First Minister and the Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change regarding energy policy in Wales.
	The current system provides a streamlined regime that minimises delays and ensures investor confidence.
	We have no plans to devolve the decision-making on consent for energy projects with a generating capacity of 50-100 megawatts.

PRIME MINISTER

Health Professions: Meetings

Ian Lucas: To ask the Prime Minister how many face-to-face meetings he has had with (a) social workers, (b) teachers, (c) nurses, (d) doctors, (e) police officers and (f) business leaders since his appointment.

David Cameron: I refer the hon. Member to the answer I gave to the hon. Member for Liverpool, Wavertree (Luciana Berger) and the hon. Member for Ogmore (Huw Irranca-Davies) on Monday 5 September, Official Report, column 4W.

Visits Abroad

Bob Ainsworth: To ask the Prime Minister what plans he has to visit the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

David Cameron: We have good relations with Saudi Arabia. A number of ministerial visits have already been made in 2011, and I expect to make visits to the Gulf States, including Saudi Arabia, in the future.

Visits Abroad

Malcolm Bruce: To ask the Prime Minister 
	(1)  what plans he has to discuss human rights in Russia and the issue of prisoners of conscience with his counterpart during his visit to Russia;
	(2)  which (a) companies, (b) organisations and (c) business people will accompany him as part of the business delegation to Russia in September 2011; and if he will make a statement;
	(3)  which Government Ministers will be accompanying him on his visit to Russia;
	(4)  whether he intends to raise the ruling by the European Court of Human Rights concerning Mikhail Khodorkovsky during his visit to Russia; and if he will make a statement.

Robert Halfon: To ask the Prime Minister 
	(1)  whether he plans to meet (a) human rights groups and (b) other non-governmental organisations during his visit to Russia; and if so, which ones;
	(2)  if he will raise (a) the case of Mikhail Khodorkovsky and Platon Lebedev and (b) human rights in general with the President of the Russian Federation during his forthcoming visit to Russia.

Sajid Javid: To ask the Prime Minister whether he plans to meet (a) human rights groups and (b) other non-governmental organisations during his visit to Russia; and if so, which ones.

David Cameron: Russia is an important partner for the UK in international security, trade and commerce; a country with whom we seek frank and productive relations. My proposed visit will be a key opportunity to strengthen our foreign policy cooperation, to discuss human rights issues and the rule of law, and to develop further our significant and mutually beneficial commercial relations. No topics will be off limits. Further details will be forthcoming.

ATTORNEY-GENERAL

Sexual Offences

Philip Davies: To ask the Attorney-General in how many cases where an offender has been charged with rape and murder (a) the rape charge was not prosecuted and (b) the offender was not placed on the Violent and Sex Offender Register in the latest period for which figures are available.

Edward Garnier: The Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) maintains no central record of the number of defendants prosecuted where an offender has been charged with rape and murder and (a) the rape charge was not prosecuted and (b) the offender was not placed on the Violent and Sex Offender Register.
	This information is held on individual case files, and may only be retrieved by locating and examining every relevant file in each CPS office in England and Wales which would incur a disproportionate cost.

ENVIRONMENT FOOD AND RURAL AFFAIRS

Agriculture: Food

William Bain: To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what assessment she has made of the recommendations of the International Assessment for Agricultural Science and Technology for Development on consulting farmers on the technology required to increase productivity in the food sector.

James Paice: The International Assessment of Agricultural Knowledge, Science and Technology for Development report was published in 2008 and is followed by the more recent Foresight report: The Future of Food and Farming(1). DEFRA is working with Government funders, research councils and the agriculture industry to boost technology through innovative collaborative research and development via the Agriculture and Food Innovation Platform (and formerly LINK Programmes) to increase productivity without impacting on the environment.
	(1)http://www.bis.gov.uk/foresight/our-work/projects/published-projects/global-food-and-farming-futures/reports-and-publications

Biodiversity

Matthew Offord: To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs 
	(1)  what progress has been made towards international co-ordination of the conservation of high seas biodiversity;
	(2)  what her policy is on the conservation of biodiversity on the high seas.

Richard Benyon: The Government are committed to working with our international partners to improve the conservation of high seas biodiversity. The UK played a key role in the establishment in 2010 of six High Seas Marine Protected Areas (MPA) in the North East Atlantic under the OSPAR Convention, building on the work that established the world's first High Seas MPA under the Commission for the Conservation of Antarctic Marine Living Resources in 2009.
	The UK fully supports the United Nations General Assembly resolutions 61/105 and 64/72, particularly as they relate to the protection of vulnerable marine ecosystems from the impact of bottom fishing on the high seas. The UK has worked within the EU to review the actions that have been taken to date and what still needs to be done to ensure the long term protection of these ecosystems and deep-sea species.
	Progress has been made, for example, in establishing an access regime for vessels engaged in deep-sea fishing, in the North East Atlantic and on the protection of the high seas where no regional fisheries management organisation exists. However, more work is needed in a number of areas, for example to improve the scientific knowledge on deep-sea species and their habitats.
	Through the International Whaling Commission, the UK will continue to strongly support the moratorium on commercial whaling, introduced in 1985/86 and will continue to work with other countries to achieve greater conservation and protection of cetaceans.
	However, the Government recognise that threats to high seas biodiversity are increasing and further work is required. In the Government's Natural Environment White-Paper we have set out a commitment to work towards delivering a new global mechanism to regulate the conservation of marine biodiversity in the high seas. We consider that such an agreement, working within the framework of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea, should set up a clear means of designating High Seas Marine Protected Areas, building on the work undertaken in Regional Seas Agreements, such as OSPAR.
	We have already made progress on this issue. Working in co-operation with other nations we secured agreement for the United Nations General Assembly to consider, at their meeting in September 2011, a recommendation to consider the need for a new multilateral agreement which would cover MPAs, and environmental impact assessments for deep sea activities. The UK, working with our EU partners and other nation states, is committed to press for a global response to the management of high seas biodiversity and sees this recommendation as a key step in the process.

Bovine Tuberculosis

Glyn Davies: To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what criteria will need to be met by groups of farmers who are granted a licence to cull badgers to control bovine TB.

James Paice: Applications for a culling licence must meet a range of strict criteria. These are set out in the draft guidance to Natural England, on which we are currently consulting with key stakeholders, at:
	http://www.defra.gov.uk/consult/files/bovinetb-guidance-ne-110719-annexa.pdf

Bovine Tuberculosis

Glyn Davies: To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs when she expects badger culling under the revised guidance to begin.

James Paice: If we decide to proceed with a policy of badger control, we propose to take a precautionary approach through a pilot of the policy, initially licensing two areas in the first year. Monitoring of controlled shooting in these areas would be overseen by a panel of independent scientific experts. If the results confirm our assumptions about the effectiveness and humaneness of controlled shooting, then and only then would the policy, be rolled out more widely.

Bovine Tuberculosis

Glyn Davies: To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs how many responses were received to the first public consultation into a cull of badgers to control bovine TB.

James Paice: As set out in the “Consultation on Guidance to Natural England on the implementation and enforcement of a badger control policy”, 59,540 responses were received to the public consultation carried out in autumn 2010. The summary of responses is available at:
	www.archive.defra.gov.uk/corporate/consult/tb-control-measures/

Bovine Tuberculosis

Glyn Davies: To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs if she will estimate the cost to the public purse of a programme of gassing badgers in each 150 square kilometre area approved for a badger cull to control bovine TB.

James Paice: As set out in the ‘Consultation on Guidance to Natural England on the implementation and enforcement of a badger control policy’, published on 19 July, we are proposing to permit only two culling methods, controlled shooting and cage-trapping and shooting. We have ruled out gassing, snaring, lethal injections and oral poisons for the time being on grounds of humaneness, effectiveness, cost or risks to other wildlife.

Bovine Tuberculosis

Glyn Davies: To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what discussions she has had with the Welsh Government about the potential for a joint strategy to combat bovine TB in affected areas which cross the border between England and Wales.

James Paice: Bovine TB is a devolved issue and, while we work closely with the Welsh Government, we have no current plans for a joint strategy. However, we recognise that this disease does not respect national borders and will continue to co-operate with the Welsh Government and seek to coordinate activity as far as possible.

Bovine Tuberculosis

Glyn Davies: To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs how many cattle were slaughtered as part of the bovine TB eradication programme in each of the last 10 years.

James Paice: The following table shows the number of cattle slaughtered under bovine TB control measures, as test reactors, inconclusive reactors or direct contacts, in England, in the last 10 years.
	
		
			  Number of cattle slaughtered 
			 2010 24,899 
			 2009 25,557 
			 2008 27,455 
			 2007 19,794 
			 2006 16,007 
			 2005 23,135 
			 2004 17,306 
			 2003 17,551 
			 2002 18,443 
			 2001 4,438 
			 Source: DEFRA's VetNet Animal Health database

Carbon Emissions

Jim McGovern: To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what recent progress she has made on the introduction of mandatory reporting of carbon emissions by UK-based corporations.

James Paice: A public consultation on options to make corporate reporting of greenhouse gas emissions more widespread and consistent was held between 11 May and 5 July. The Secretary of State is currently considering the Government’s response to the consultation and will make an announcement in the autumn.

Fishing Catches

Zac Goldsmith: To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs how many fixed quota allocations for UK fish stocks are fished by (a) foreign companies and (b) UK-based companies which are majority-owned subsidiaries of overseas companies.

Richard Benyon: Information regarding the holdings of Fixed Quota Allocation units is recorded in terms of the ownership of licences or licence entitlements that the units are linked to. Ownership of the licence is based primarily on the ownership of the vessels the licences are linked to, with the details of the individual person, groups of persons or companies being those that are recorded by the UK Register of Shipping and Seamen. Within the UK Register of Shipping and Seaman, the nationality of the individuals or companies concerned is not recorded. As such the information requested is not available.

Grasslands

William Bain: To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs how much financial support her Department plans to provide for natural grasslands in each of the next four financial years.

Richard Benyon: Fully natural grasslands are very rare in England and are limited to high altitude grasslands and, in the lowlands, some very exposed, unstable south-facing slopes in southern England on chalk/limestone where the prevailing environmental conditions prevent shrub and tree invasion. These rare natural grasslands do not require active management so agri-environment schemes are not required to maintain them.

Grasslands

William Bain: To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs 
	(1)  what assessment she has made of the potential contribution of semi-natural grasslands to (a) carbon storage, (b) flood prevention, (c) water purification and (d) crop pollination;
	(2)  what assessment she has made of the potential contribution of grasslands to climate change mitigation through carbon storage and sequestration.

Richard Benyon: The UK National Ecosystem Assessment (UKNEA) reported on 2 June 2011. This independent study, of which DEFRA was the major funder, considered the contribution of semi-natural grasslands to a wide variety of ecosystem services across the UK. Chapter 6 of the full technical report, available on the UK NEA website, gives details of the contribution that semi-natural grasslands make to carbon storage and sequestration, flood prevention, water purification and crop pollination, and these issues are further discussed in Chapter 14 – Regulating Services.

Grasslands

William Bain: To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what support her Department plans to provide to farmers to maintain semi-natural grasslands in each of the next four financial years.

Richard Benyon: Committed expenditure under the specific agri-environment scheme option aimed at maintaining semi-natural grassland stands at £3.9 million per annum. Further expenditure will be committed as new Environmental Stewardship agreements are negotiated. The current Rural Development Plan for England programme allows additional commitments for the management of semi-natural grasslands to be made up to 13 December 2013.

Grasslands

William Bain: To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what her policy is on the application of the Environmental Impact Assessment Directive to semi-natural grassland sites with an area of less than two hectares.

Richard Benyon: The Environmental Impact Assessment (Agriculture) (England) (No2) Regulations 2006 which transposes the directive, sets a two hectare threshold for uncultivated land or semi-natural areas.
	Below two hectares screening notices can be used that disapply this threshold from a particular area of land. These may be served by Natural England if:
	(a) it reasonably believes that an uncultivated land project is likely to be carried out on the land;
	(b) the extent of the project would fall below the threshold applicable to it in the area where it would be carried out; and
	(c) it considers, in accordance with selection criteria (relating to characteristic, location and potential impact of a project), that the project would be likely to have significant effects on the environment.

Grasslands

William Bain: To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what estimate she has made of the proportion of semi-natural grassland which is protected by the Environmental Impact Assessment Directive.

Richard Benyon: All semi-natural grassland types, apart from upland acid grassland, have been identified as priority habitats under the UK Biodiversity Action Plan (BAP). In England, the total area of BAP semi-natural priority grasslands is estimated to be 184,054 hectares.
	The Environmental Impact Assessment (Agriculture) (England) (No2) Regulations 2006 sets a threshold for application of the directive to sites equal to or greater than two hectares. Consequently, the directive applies directly to 47% of the resource of BAP priority semi-natural grassland.
	In addition, the regulations can also be applied to a particular area of land below this threshold in certain circumstances.

Grasslands

William Bain: To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what her policy is on widening the definition of semi-natural within the Environmental Impact Assessment Directive to include grasslands that support wildlife species other than plants.

Richard Benyon: Semi-natural areas are not defined in the Environmental Impact Assessment Directive and the definition of semi-natural is provided by the body responsible for nature conservation designations in each member state.
	England's definition of semi-natural areas was set by the Joint Nature Conservation Committee working together with an expert group.
	When DEFRA held a consultation on the draft EIA (Agriculture) Regulations in 2005 implementing the directive responses from environmentalists and farmers made quite clear the need for a transparent and easily applied test for semi-natural areas. We believe that the current regulations and guidance reflect this requirement.
	We therefore have no plans to review this definition.

Grasslands

William Bain: To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs if she will assess the status and extent of semi-natural grasslands outside sites of special scientific interest.

Richard Benyon: There are 184,054 hectares of Biodiversity Action Plan priority semi-natural grassland habitat in England. Approximately 33% (60.738 hectares) of this is not within Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSIs).
	A sample survey undertaken in 2005 showed that an average of 21% of the lowland semi-natural grassland outside SSSIs was in favourable condition.

Grasslands

William Bain: To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what her policy is on the level of (a) semi-improved and (b) intensively-managed improved grassland in each of the next four years.

Richard Benyon: Biodiversity 2020—our new strategy for biodiversity in England—includes outcomes to be achieved for priority habitats by 2020. Priority habitats are those listed under section 41 of the Natural Environment and Rural Communities Act 2006 and include a number of different grassland habitats, for example lowland meadows and upland calcareous grassland.
	These outcomes include increasing the proportion of priority habitats in favourable or recovering condition to 90% by 2020 and increasing the overall extent of priority habitats by at least 200,000 hectares by 2020. The outcomes are to be achieved by 2020 and are not broken down by year.

Grasslands

William Bain: To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs if she will assess the capacity of the Single Payment Scheme to take account of the environmental value of semi-natural grasslands.

James Paice: It is a condition of payment under the single payment scheme that farmers have to meet a range of environmental standards known as cross compliance. These include a requirement for farmers to adhere to specific regulations in the Environmental Impact Assessment (Agriculture) (England) (No 2) Regulations 2006. These regulations are designed to protect uncultivated land and semi-natural areas from being damaged by agricultural work. They also guard against possible negative environmental effects from the restructuring of rural land holdings. The regulations apply to projects that are greater than two hectares, but this threshold can be disapplied where it is thought that a project of less than 2 ha may have a significant impact on the environment (for example, this may be due to the particularly high environmental quality of the land or the cumulative impact of the project.
	Cross compliance also requires farmers to avoid over grazing or unsuitable supplementary feeding on natural or semi-natural vegetation.
	There is a broader obligation in the EU rules governing cross compliance that member states need to monitor the proportion of agricultural land that is ‘permanent pasture’ and maintain levels of ‘permanent pasture’ above a minimum ratio, set on a historic basis. However the EU definition of ‘permanent pasture’ does not distinguish between natural/semi-natural grassland of high environmental value and enriched and reseeded grassland of low environmental value so provides little protection to the former. The Task Force on Farming Regulation recognised this failing in the current system. The UK will consider this issue as part of the forthcoming negotiations to reform the CAP.

Marine Animals

Tony Lloyd: To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what recent assessment she has made of scientific research concerning the global viability of marine life.

Richard Benyon: DEFRA has not carried out any such assessment. However, the UN regular process for global reporting and assessment of the state of the marine environment will be producing a first global integrated assessment of the state of the marine environment. This is due to be completed by 2014.

Ragwort

Caroline Nokes: To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs how many local authorities have been fined for allowing ragwort to grow on highway verges since 2007.

Richard Benyon: Common Ragwort is one of five injurious weeds specified in the Weeds Act 1959. The Act does not make it illegal to have weeds growing on land, but provides that the Secretary of State can serve an enforcement notice for the occupier to take action to prevent the spread of weeds to neighbouring land. If an occupier of land unreasonably fails to comply with an enforcement notice, he or she may be guilty of an offence, and, on conviction, liable to a fine.
	Since 2007, no local authorities have been fined in connection with the 1959 Act. However, Natural England, the agency responsible for enforcing the Act, has followed up complaints about the proliferation of Ragwort with various measures including site inspections, clearance requests and the issue of enforcement notices.

Water Supply

William Bain: To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what her policy is on the provision of capital funding for fencing or water supply through the Entry Level Stewardship scheme.

James Paice: There is no capital funding available in the Entry Level Stewardship Scheme.
	The Uplands Entry Level Stewardship Scheme contains capital works options for boundary restoration and fencing in certain circumstances. Capital payments are not available for water supply as part of this scheme.

JUSTICE

Civil Disorder

Priti Patel: To ask the Secretary of State for Justice how many and what types of offences perpetrators of public disorder in August 2011 were (a) charged with and (b) prosecuted for; and what the sentences were in each case.

Crispin Blunt: We are currently publishing frequent updates on people being dealt with by the court system in relation to the disturbances on 6-9 August. These reports can be found on the Ministry of Justice website at:
	http://www.justice.gov.uk/publications/statistics-and-data/ad-hoc/index.htm
	Charging data are not collated centrally by the Ministry of Justice.
	As the publication notes, the Chief Statistician will review the quality of data and release further breakdowns as reliable data become available. It is intended to release further data on 8 September. A more detailed release will be published on 15 September containing detailed information on age, gender, offence committed, sentence given, and previous criminal history.

Civil Disorder

David Amess: To ask the Secretary of State for Justice what recent representations he has received on the level of assistance available to victims of crime during recent public disorder; what response he provided; and if he will make a statement.

Crispin Blunt: The Ministry of Justice has not received any representations on the level of assistance available to victims of crime during the recent public disorder.
	The Government are determined to ensure that victims of crime receive the support they need. This year the Ministry of Justice has provided more than £47 million in funding to victims' organisations, including £38 million to Victim Support. Any victim of the recent public disorder can contact Victim Support for free and confidential practical advice, emotional support, and information about the criminal justice process and other forms of support that may be appropriate.
	In line with recent announcements by the Deputy Prime Minister, we are also considering how best to afford those affected by the riots the opportunity to explain the impact of the crimes upon them and to make sure that offenders face up to the consequences of their actions.

Civil Disorder

David Amess: To ask the Secretary of State for Justice 
	(1)  what the average (a) fine and (b) sentence was for each offence committed during the recent incidents of public disorder (i) in each police force area, (ii) by sex of the offender and (iii) by age group of the offender; and if he will make a statement;
	(2)  how many (a) males and (b) females in each age group were (i) arrested and (ii) prosecuted for each criminal offence during the recent incidents of public disorder; and if he will make a statement;
	(3)  how many (a) cautions and (b) fines were imposed for (i) vandalism, (ii) graffiti, (c) theft, (iv) criminal damage and (v) anti-social behaviour in each district and unitary council area in England during recent public disorder in respect of people (A) of each sex and (B) in each age group; and if he will make a statement.

Crispin Blunt: The Ministry of Justice is currently publishing frequent updates on people being dealt with by the court system in relation to the disturbances on 6-9 August. These reports can be found on the Ministry of Justice website at:
	http://www.justice.gov.uk/publications/statistics-and-data/ad-hoc/index.htm
	As the publication notes, the chief statistician will review the quality of data and release further breakdowns as reliable data become available. It is intended to release further data on 8 September. A more detailed release will be published on 15 September containing detailed information on age, gender, offence committed, sentence given, and previous criminal history.

Civil Disorder: Criminal Injuries Compensation

Hugh Bayley: To ask the Secretary of State for Justice how many claims have been submitted under the Criminal Injuries Compensation Scheme in respect of incidents during the disturbances in August 2011; and what estimate he has made of the cost of compensation which will be paid in respect of those claims.

Jonathan Djanogly: The Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA) has put special measures in place to track claims arising from these disturbances, and has received two such claims as of 18 August. The Criminal Injuries Compensation Scheme 2008 (the Scheme) gives people two years from the date of the incident in which they were injured to apply for compensation, so it is too early to say what the total number of claims might be. CICA cannot currently estimate the cost of those claims already in the system because they will need to receive and assess the relevant evidence for each case.

Conveyancing: Estate Agents

Neil Parish: To ask the Secretary of State for Justice if he will examine the practice of solicitors and conveyancers paying referral fees to estate agents; and if he will make a statement.

Jonathan Djanogly: This issue has been considered recently in the Office of Fair Trading's home buying and selling report and by the Legal Services Board (LSB). The Government are not currently pursuing further work specifically in relation to referral fees and estate agents, although it has indicated that it is sympathetic to a ban on referral fees in personal injury cases, and is currently considering the way forward.

Courts: Sunderland

Bridget Phillipson: To ask the Secretary of State for Justice pursuant to the answers of 21 July 2010, Official Report, column 322W and 9 February 2011, Official Report, column 241W, on courts: Sunderland, what recent progress has been made on the proposed rebuilding of court premises in Sunderland; and if he will make a statement.

Jonathan Djanogly: The Ministry of Justice continues to review its investment priorities in the light of the current spending review settlement. The business case for new court facilities in Sunderland is in the process of being examined to establish its priority in an updated court building programme. Officials are reviewing all deferred court projects, of which the Sunderland project is one. The review is planned to be completed by February 2012. I will write to you with the outcome of the review when it is known and by March 2012 in any event.

Departmental Telephone Services

Nia Griffith: To ask the Secretary of State for Justice how much funding he has allocated to each telephone helpline operated by his Department in 2011-12; and what the purpose is of each such helpline.

Jonathan Djanogly: The Ministry of Justice has identified that there are key characteristics which define a helpline. These are:
	That the telephone line provides tailored advice or guidance to citizens or businesses (as distinct from communicating simple, standard information, or providing a transactional service);
	That the telephone line is citizen or business facing.
	Using this definition, there are currently four helplines funded by the Ministry of Justice.
	Legal Services Commission Community Legal Advice helpline
	Provides free help and legal advice relating to debt, housing, employment, education and welfare benefits, tax credits and family issues for those eligible for legal aid.
	Budget allocation: approximately £23,000,000
	Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority helpline
	Provides tailored advice on applying for criminal injuries compensation.
	Budget allocation: £1,177,516.
	Office of the Public Guardian (OPG) Customer Contact Centre
	Provides advice relating to OPG services including: the registration of Lasting Powers of Attorney (LPAs); the supervision of Deputies appointed by the Court of Protection; and the Public Guardian's role in adult safeguarding.
	Budget allocation: £723,000(1).
	Court Funds Office helpline
	Provides tailored advice to clients and stakeholders.
	Budget allocation: £250,000(1).
	(1) CFO and OPG are both self-funding organisations. As a result, although these figures are included in our budget, each sum is reimbursed by CFO and OPG respectively.

Departmental Work Experience

Bridget Phillipson: To ask the Secretary of State for Justice pursuant to the answer to the hon. Member for Liverpool, Wavertree of 19 October 2010, Official Report, column 706W, on departmental work experience, what the beginning and end dates were of each unpaid internship; for how many weeks each such intern worked in the Department; what the number of hours worked by each such intern per week was; and whether each such intern worked fixed hours.

Jonathan Djanogly: The three unpaid interns worked three days a week (22 hours) over three months during the period September 2009 and May 2010. There are no specific records to confirm whether the hours worked were fixed or not.

Departmental Work Experience

Bridget Phillipson: To ask the Secretary of State for Justice how many (a) persons undertaking unpaid work experience, (b) unpaid interns and (c) other persons in unpaid positions were working in his Department as of 1 July 2011.

Jonathan Djanogly: The Ministry of Justice does not record centrally the numbers of persons undertaking unpaid work experience. To establish this information will require an examination of locally held records and this will incur a disproportionate cost.
	The Ministry of Justice is developing a policy on work experience in order to meet its commitment to provide a minimum of 100 work placements during 2011-12.

Domestic Violence: Immigrants

Bridget Phillipson: To ask the Secretary of State for Justice what legal aid costs were incurred in respect of women granted indefinite leave to remain under the domestic violence rule in 2009.

Jonathan Djanogly: The Legal Services Commission does not record the reasons for granting indefinite leave to remain. It is therefore not possible to identify costs incurred in cases where women have been granted indefinite leave to remain in the United Kingdom on the ground of domestic violence.

Driving Under Influence: Sentencing

Daniel Poulter: To ask the Secretary of State for Justice what consideration he has given to bringing forward proposals to increase sentences available for offences of causing death by dangerous driving by individuals over the legal limit for alcohol consumption.

Crispin Blunt: The offence of causing death by careless driving when under the influence of drink or drugs or having failed either to provide a specimen for analysis or to permit analysis of a blood sample carries a maximum penalty of 14 years custody. The offence of causing death by dangerous driving also has a maximum penalty of 14 years. We do not have any plans to change this.

Employment and Support Allowance: Appeals

Duncan Hames: To ask the Secretary of State for Justice what estimate he has made of the cost to his Department of the Employment and Support Allowance Appeals Tribunal Service in 2010-11.

Jonathan Djanogly: The total cost to the Tribunals Service of employment and support allowance (ESA) appeals during 2010-11 is calculated by multiplying the average cost of an individual first-tier tribunal-social security and child support case by the number of ESA appeals decided during the year. There were 176,600 ESA appeals decided in 2010-11 and the total estimated cost of clearing those cases, based on the above calculation, was £42.207 million.

European Court of Human Rights

Chris Heaton-Harris: To ask the Secretary of State for Justice in respect of which legislative provisions a final court judgement has referred to section 3 of the Human Rights Act 1998 as the main provision determining the interpretation of such provisions; and which Convention right or rights were at issue in each case.

Jonathan Djanogly: The information is not available in the form requested and could not be provided except at disproportionate cost.

Homicide

Derek Twigg: To ask the Secretary of State for Justice how many and what proportion of requests by the families of murder victims for a specific exclusion zone to be imposed on the offender following release have been met in full in each year since 2005.

Crispin Blunt: The information requested is not held centrally by this Department.
	It is for the independent Parole Board to determine whether a life sentenced prisoner may be released from custody on completion of his tariff (that is, the minimum period which must be served in custody for the purposes of punishment and deterrence). It is also for the Parole Board to determine the conditions to which the life sentenced prisoner should be subject on release.
	Under the Domestic Violence, Crime and Victims Act 2004, the families of murder victims have the right to make representations to the Parole Board as to the licence conditions, including exclusion zones, to which the life sentenced prisoner should be made subject on release from custody. Victims make such representations through a victim liaison officer provided by a probation trust.
	The probation offender manager, who will be responsible for enforcing the licence conditions, also makes recommendations to the Parole Board as to the licence conditions to which the life sentenced prisoner should be subject on release, and in doing so must consider not only victims' representations but also the need to promote the offender's rehabilitation.
	In order to be lawful, licence conditions, including exclusion zones, must in every case be necessary and proportionate to manage the risks presented by an offender.

Human Rights

Chris Heaton-Harris: To ask the Secretary of State for Justice pursuant to the answer of 26 April 2011, Official Report, column 144W, on human rights, whether there have been further declarations of incompatibility under section 4 of the Human Rights Act 1998 since 26 April 2011.

Jonathan Djanogly: There have been no further declarations of incompatibility under section 4 of the Human Rights Act 1998 since 26 April 2011. The last such declaration was made in November 2010 in the case of R (on the application of Royal College of Nursing and others) v. Secretary of State for Home Department.

Legal Costs

John Glen: To ask the Secretary of State for Justice if he will assess the likely effects of the provisions of the Legal Aid, Sentencing and Punishment of Offenders Bill on the capacity of (a) HM Revenue and Customs, (b) small businesses and (c) insolvency practitioners to pursue delinquent directors in insolvency litigation.

Jonathan Djanogly: Ministry of Justice officials are in ongoing contact with officials at HMRC and the Insolvency Service regarding the impact of the reforms on insolvency proceedings.

Prison Sentences

Philip Davies: To ask the Secretary of State for Justice 
	(1)  how many previous convictions and for what offence each person serving an indeterminate sentence for public protection had;
	(2)  what offences each person serving an indeterminate sentence for public protection was convicted of; how many previous convictions each such person had; what the previous offences were in each case; and what the equivalent figures were in each of the last three years for which figures are available.

Crispin Blunt: Table 1 as follows shows the number of prisoners serving an Indeterminate sentence for Public Protection (IPP) by offence as at 30 June 2008 to 2010. Table 2 shows the numbers of previous convictions for these prisoners. Data on the offences for which these prisoners were previously convicted are not held centrally.
	These figures have been drawn from administrative IT systems which, as with any large scale recording system, are subject to possible errors with data entry and processing.
	
		
			 Table 1: Population of prisoners serving an Indeterminate sentence for Public Protection (IPP), England and Wales, 2008, 2009 and 2010 
			  As at 30 June 
			  2008 2009 2010 
			 All offences 4,461 5,205 5,659 
			     
			 Manslaughter 90 115 138 
			 Other homicide and attempted homicide 223 258 289 
			 Other violence against the person 1,322 1,577 1,727 
			 Rape 492 608 709 
			 Other sexual offences 500 574 663 
			 Robbery 1,206 1,327 1,368 
			 Arson 243 279 275 
			 Other offences 385 467 490 
		
	
	
		
			 Table 2: IPP  (1)   prisoners in prison establishments under sentence at 30 June 2008, 2009 and 2010  ,   by proportion of previous convictions  (2)  , England and Wales 
			   Proportion of offenders by number of previous convictions   (percentage) 
			 At 30 June IPP population 0 1 to 2 3 to 6 7 to 10 11 to 14 15+ 
			 2008 4,461 9 12 19 17 13 29 
			 2009 5,205 9 13 20 17 13 28 
			 2010 5,659 9 13 20 17 13 29 
			 (1) Indeterminate sentence for Public Protection (IPP). (2) Based on data matched to the Police National Computer. Data S  ource and Quality: These figures have been compiled using the Ministry of Justice's extract from the Police National Computer. Like any large scale recording system the PNC is subject to errors with data entry and recording. The PNC is regularly updated so that further analysis at a later date will generate revised figures.

Reoffenders

Stephen McCabe: To ask the Secretary of State for Justice what research his Department has commissioned on the reasons for the differences in reoffending rates of male prisoners (a) under and (b) over the age of 21.

Crispin Blunt: Research on the reasons for the differences in reoffending rates of male prisoners under and over the age of 21 has not been commissioned. However the MoJ publishes annual National Statistics on the re-convictions of adults (aged 18 or over) and the reoffending of young people (aged 10 to 17).
	Re-conviction on adults discharged from prison is available in Table A5 at the following link:
	http://www.justice.gov.uk/publications/statistics-and-data/reoffending/adults.htm
	While reoffending data on young people discharged from prison are in Table A5 at the following link:
	http://www.justice.gov.uk/publications/statistics-and-data/reoffending/juveniles.htm
	We recognise that the reoffending rate for young people leaving custody is too high. Custody for young people is a last resort and used only for the most serious and persistent offenders. Young people leaving custody are therefore a challenging group with complex and wide-ranging problems which require intensive intervention and support.

Small Claims

Mark Garnier: To ask the Secretary of State for Justice how many small claims settlements set at a rate of £1 or less per month for a total amount payable of £50 or more were adjudicated by the Court Service in 2005.

Jonathan Djanogly: The Ministry of Justice does not hold figures centrally on the number of small claim cases which had a settlement rate set at £1 or less per moth for a total amount payable of £50 or more in the county courts.
	The administrative computer systems in the county courts contain the records of all small claim hearings which take place in England and Wales. However the systems do not identify the outcome of these hearings, the total amounts the defendant must pay back, as well as the rate at which they should pay these back are not recorded. Therefore the information requested can be obtained through the manual examination of the electronic records only at disproportionate cost.

Small Claims

Mark Garnier: To ask the Secretary of State for Justice whether there is a standard criterion for the repayment rates set by the small claims court service.

Jonathan Djanogly: There is no standard criterion set by the Ministry of Justice for determining repayment rates following judgment in small claims proceedings within the county courts. Setting repayments after a small claims hearing is a judicial function governed by the County Court Act 1984.

Social Security Benefits: Appeals

Shaun Woodward: To ask the Secretary of State for Justice how many appeals against decision on application for (a) disability living allowance and (b) employment and support allowance there have been in St Helens South and Whiston constituency in each of the last three years; and how many such appeals were upheld.

Jonathan Djanogly: HM Courts and Tribunals Service (HMCTS) do not have an administrative office in St Helens South and Whiston. Appeals submitted within the hon. Member's constituency are heard at the Social Security and Child Support hearing venues in Warrington and Runcorn. The following table shows the number of disability living allowance and employment and support allowance (ESA) appeals received and the number of decisions found in favour of the appellant in the Warrington and Runcorn venues in each of the last three years.
	
		
			 Warrington and Runcorn hearing venues 
			  Disability living allowance appeals Employment support allowance appeals 
			  Received Upheld (decision in favour of the appellant) Received Upheld (decision in favour of the appellant) 
			 2008-09 880 190 20 0 
			 2009-10 940 130 1,150 90 
			 2010-11 1,000 260 2,300 430 
			 Note: The above data are for appeals received by HMCTS and allocated to Warrington and Runcorn venues. The figures may include some appeals from outside St Helens South and Whiston constituency and may not include all constituency cases. ESA was introduced in October 2008 and replaced Incapacity Benefit (IB). The first appeals against ESA decisions were not received until January 2009 and this is reflected in the figures.

Social Security Benefits: Appeals

Shaun Woodward: To ask the Secretary of State for Justice what the average waiting time was between submission of an appeal against a decision on the award of (a) employment and support allowance and (b) disability living allowance and the date of the appeal hearing in (i) St Helens South and Whiston constituency, (ii) Merseyside and (iii) England in (A) the latest period for which figures are available and (B) each of the last three years.

Jonathan Djanogly: HM Courts and Tribunals Service (HMCTS) do not have an administrative office in St Helens and Whiston. Appeals submitted within the hon. Member's constituency are heard at the Social Security and Child Support (SSCS) hearing venues in Warrington and Runcorn. The following table shows the average time in weeks from submission of an appeal to HM Courts and Tribunals Service until the date of the first appeal hearing for employment and support allowance (ESA) and disability living allowance (DLA) appeals.
	
		
			 Average appeal waiting time to first hearing 
			 Weeks 
			  Warrington and Runcorn venues Liverpool venue  (1) England venues 
			  ESA DLA ESA DLA ESA DL A 
			 2008-09 6.4 10.3 2.0 11.6 3.8 12.1 
			 2009-10 10.8 16.9 12.2 17.4 12.6 16.3 
			 2010-11 15.6 24.7 16.4 23.0 19.5 23.0 
			 April- June 2011 20.6 29.6 21.1 28.2 25.2 29.6 
			 (1) HMCTS do not have a definition of Merseyside therefore the data supplied relate to ESA and DLA appeals processed by the Liverpool administrative centre. ESA was introduced in October 2008 and replaced incapacity benefit. The first appeals against ESA decisions were not received until January 2009 and this is reflected in the figures. 
		
	
	Longer than usual waiting times for a hearing have resulted from an unexpectedly high level of appeals received across the Department for Work and Pensions. In response HMCTS has significantly increased its capacity. The most recent published management information shows that, nationally, 30% more SSCS appeals were cleared between April 2011 and June 2011 when compared with the same period in 2010 and 71% more when compared with the same period in 2009.

UK Bill of Rights

Priti Patel: To ask the Secretary of State for Justice what the cost to the public purse was of developing a dedicated website for the Commission on a UK Bill of Rights.

Jonathan Djanogly: The web pages of the Commission on a Bill of Rights are based on the existing justice.gov.uk platform. Any costs associated with them relate only to staff time, and were met by the Ministry of Justice, as the Commission's sponsoring department, using existing resources and budgets.

Young Offenders: Remand in Custody

Paul Maynard: To ask the Secretary of State for Justice how many children were (a) remanded in custody or (b) subject to court ordered secure remand for a week or less in the last year for which information is available.

Crispin Blunt: Data on remand episodes, which are the periods a young person spends in custody, are recorded by the Youth Justice Board on their secure accommodation clearing house system. Data held centrally by the Ministry of Justice do not include the length of time spent on remand.
	This could be ascertained by reference to individual court files, which could be achieved only at disproportionate cost. The following table shows the number of custodial episodes, of one week or less, ended in the secure estate during the financial year 2009-10. As a young person may have more than one remand episode in a year, the actual number of individuals will be less than the total shown.
	
		
			 Custodial episodes for children and young people remanded for a week or less, for the financial year 2009-10 
			 Remand type Number 
			 Remand to custody 974 
			 Remand to secure accommodation 147 
			 Total 1,121 
			 Source:YJB secure accommodation clearing house system database.

TREASURY

Economic Growth

Iain Wright: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer what assessment he has made of the potential implications for the economy of the most recent figures for economic growth.

Danny Alexander: Our economic policy objective is to achieve strong, sustainable and balanced growth that is more evenly shared across the country and between industries. The independent Office for Budget Responsibility's forecasts published at Budget take full account of the policy measures announced in both the spending review and Budget 2011. The OBR forecasts the economy to grow throughout 2011 and in every year of the forecast. It will publish a fully updated forecast in the autumn.

Economic Growth

Tom Blenkinsop: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer what assessment he has made of the potential implications for the economy of the most recent figures for economic growth.

Danny Alexander: Our economic policy objective is to achieve strong, sustainable and balanced growth that is more evenly shared across the country and between industries. The independent Office for Budget Responsibility's forecasts published at Budget take full account of the policy measures announced in both the spending review and Budget 2011. The OBR forecasts the economy to grow throughout 2011 and in every year of the forecast. It will publish a fully updated forecast in the autumn.

Economic Policy

Alec Shelbrooke: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer what recent discussions he has had with representatives of the International Monetary Fund and the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development on UK economic policy.

Mark Hoban: The International Monetary Fund (IMF) and OECD hold frank bilateral discussions with each of their member countries on a regular basis. Most recently, IMF staff visited London in late May and early June and met with various institutions, including HM Treasury, as part of their economic surveillance function. The IMF published their staff report for this consultation on 1 August 2011. The IMF concluded that:
	“Strong fiscal consolidation is underway and remains essential to achieve a more sustainable budgetary position, thus reducing fiscal risks.”

Public Sector Workers

Gavin Shuker: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer what estimate he has made of the number of public sector workers who will receive a salary increase of £250 in 2011-12.

Danny Alexander: At least £250 will be paid to all those earning £21,000 or less in work forces under ministerial control—including the NHS, teachers, the armed forces, prisons and the civil service.
	The pay decisions for other work forces do not fall under ministerial control, including the devolved Administrations, local authorities and public corporations. We do not have information about the number of workers receiving the £250 in these sectors. However, Government expect these employers to exercise similar restraint and regard for the fairness agenda.

Domestic Energy

Nicholas Dakin: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer what assessment he has made of the effects on the economy of recent trends in domestic energy prices.

Justine Greening: The Government consider a range of factors when assessing prospects for the economy. The Office for Budget Responsibility (OBR) is responsible for producing independent economic and fiscal forecasts. It will publish a fully updated forecast in the autumn.

Domestic Energy

Anas Sarwar: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer what assessment he has made of the effects on the economy of recent trends in domestic energy prices.

Justine Greening: The Government consider a range of factors when assessing prospects for the economy. The Office for Budget Responsibility (OBR) is responsible for producing independent economic and fiscal forecasts. It will publish a fully updated forecast in the autumn.

VAT

Pamela Nash: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer what recent assessment he has made of the potential effects on consumer confidence of the change in the basic rate of VAT.

David Gauke: Sustainable public finances will support confidence in the medium-term.
	Decisive action taken by the Government in the spending review and June Budget, including the increase in VAT, will put the public finances and spending on a sustainable footing.

Tax Avoidance

Julian Huppert: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer what steps he is taking to reduce tax avoidance by large organisations and wealthy individuals.

David Gauke: The Government are determined to reduce tax avoidance, including by large organisations and wealthy individuals, to protect the Exchequer and maintain fairness for the taxpayer. Their strategic approach, supported by HMRC's new anti-avoidance strategy, was set out in the Budget document 'Tackling Tax Avoidance'. The Government's commitment to tackling avoidance has been underlined by their reinvestment of £917 million in HMRC which will enable it to better tackle tax avoidance and evasion.

Cheques

Bob Russell: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer 
	(1)  if he will take steps to establish which Government departments and agencies do not accept payment by cheque; and if he will make a statement;
	(2)  what advice his Department has provided to (a) Government Departments, (b) local authorities and (c) other public bodies and organisations on the acceptance of cheques as a means of payment; and if he will make a statement.

Justine Greening: The Treasury provide guidance on banking issues in Annex 5.7 of Managing Public Money (MPM).MPM sets out principles for dealing with resources used in the public sector including use of cheques to process payment and receipts. Departments and their agencies are best placed to decide on the methods of payment that they are willing to accept.

Coastal Communities Fund

Cathy Jamieson: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer 
	(1)  whether the Big Lottery's Big Fund will be able to delegate decision-making on the allocation of the Coastal Communities Fund to local authorities or statutory development agencies in Scotland for applications within their areas;
	(2)  who will be consulted in Scotland on the criteria for allocation of the Coastal Communities Fund; and what timetable has been set for any such consultation.

Danny Alexander: The Government will work closely with the Big Lottery Fund and the devolved Administrations on the details of how the Coastal Community Fund will operate, including how decisions will be made and how best to take the fund forward with local stakeholders.

Coastal Communities Fund

Cathy Jamieson: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether the priorities and criteria for the use of the Coastal Communities Fund in Scotland will be uniform across Scotland or will allow for variation between different geographical areas.

Danny Alexander: The Government have announced that there will be separate arrangements for the Highlands and Islands and the rest of Scotland. Further details will be announced in due course.

Corporation Tax: EU Action

Priti Patel: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether the Government will be represented at The Working Party on Tax Questions—Direct Taxation meeting to be held in Brussels on 6 September 2011 to examine the proposal for a common consolidated corporate tax base; and what his policy is on (a) that proposal and (b) the work of the working party.

David Gauke: Government officials attend the meetings of the Working Party on Tax Questions—Direct Taxation. The Government believe is it important to attend such working parties to ensure British interests are represented. We will not agree to any proposal that would jeopardize our ability to shape our own tax policy and stop us from achieving our objective of creating the most competitive corporate tax regime in the G20.

Corporation Tax: Unpaid Taxes

Hywel Williams: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer what estimate he has made of the number of companies owing unpaid corporation taxes of (a) less than £10,000, (b) between £10,001 and £25,000, (c) between £25,001 and £50,000, (d) between £50,001 and £100,000 and (e) more than £100,000 in each region in the last five years; and how much was owed in each such category in each such year.

David Gauke: The information is not available and could be researched only at disproportionate cost.

Credit Unions

Jonathan Evans: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer what steps he is taking to support the promotion of credit unions to disadvantaged and vulnerable people; and if he will make a statement.

Mark Hoban: The Government have committed to foster diversity, promote mutuals and create a more competitive banking industry, as set out in the coalition's programme for Government.
	On 3 March the Department for Work and Pensions announced a £73 million Modernisation Fund to help credit unions expand their services. This is subject to a feasibility study which closes in September. An update can be found at:
	http://www.dwp.gov.uk/other-specialists/the-growth-fund/latest-news/
	On 12 April the Treasury made the Mutual Societies (Electronic Communications) Order 2011. This allows credit unions and other mutuals to communicate with their members electronically.
	Further, on 19 July the draft Legislative Reform (Industrial and Provident Societies and Credit Unions) Order 2011 was laid in Parliament for its final period of scrutiny. It will present many opportunities for credit unions to develop their services, attract investment and expand their membership further.

Departmental Advertising

Gavin Williamson: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer how much his Department has spent on (a) television, (b) radio and (c) newspaper advertising in (i) real and (ii) nominal terms between (A) November 1999 and June 2001, (B) May 2002 and June 2007 and (C) June 2007 and January 2008; and what the total cost to the public purse was.

Justine Greening: The Treasury's accounting system does not differentiate between types of advertising media and prior to 2005-06 did not separately identify advertising spending and accordingly the information could be provided only at disproportionate cost. Spending on advertising between March 2005 and June 2007 was £483,000 and between June 2007 and January 2008 was £140,000. Spending in real terms can be calculated using the GDP deflator series available from:
	www.hm-treasury.gov.uk

Departmental Billing

Gavin Williamson: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer how many late payments his Department has made to contractors between (a) November 1999 and June 2001, (b) May 2002 and June 2007 and (c) June 2007 and January 2008; and what the cost to the public purse was of any (i) penalty charges or (ii) interest charges incurred in those periods.

Justine Greening: The Department has not incurred any such penalty charges and interest charges for late payments costs since 2006.

Departmental Correspondence

Austin Mitchell: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer how many letters his Department received from hon. Members in June 2011.

Justine Greening: The Treasury received 1,685 letters from Members of the Commons or the Lords during June this year.

Departmental Operating Costs

Jonathan Ashworth: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer what the running costs were of No. 11 Downing Street in 2010-11.

Justine Greening: By long-standing arrangement, the Treasury pays a contribution to the Cabinet Office for the rent and service charge of the space used by HM Treasury and by the Chancellor of the Exchequer within the Downing Street estate. For 2010-11, this contribution totalled £348,891.

Departmental Rail Travel

Gavin Williamson: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer what the cost to the public purse was for (a) first class and (b) all train travel by (i) Ministers, (ii) staff and (iii) special advisers in his Department between (A) November 1999 and June 2001, (B) May 2002 and June 2007 and (C) June 2007 and January 2008.

Justine Greening: Information relating to train travel spend for the periods November 1999 to June 2001 and May 2002 to June 2007 could be provided only at disproportionate cost.
	Between June 2007 and January 2008 the Department spent £308,736 on first class train travel and £132,048 on standard class train travel.

Departmental Stationery

Gavin Williamson: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer what the cost to the public purse was of stationery purchased by his Department between (a) November 1999 and June 2001, (b) May 2002 and June 2007 and (c) June 2007 and January 2008.

Justine Greening: Information on spending prior to 2002 is no longer available due to the introduction of a new accounting system in that year. Spending on stationery between May 2002 and June 2007 was £1,446,000 and between June 2007 and January 2008 was £135,000.

Departmental Visits Abroad

Gavin Williamson: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer how many overseas visits were made by (a) Ministers, (b) staff and (c) special advisers in his Department between (i) November 1999 and June 2001 and (ii) May 2002 and June 2007 and (iii) June 2007 and January 2008; and what the cost to the public purse was of each such visit.

Justine Greening: Information on the number and cost of individual overseas visits is not held centrally and could not be provided within the disproportionate costs threshold.

Economic and Monetary Union: Payments

William Bain: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer what his policy is on expansion of the Single European Payment Area.

Mark Hoban: The Single Euro Payments Area will make electronic payments in Euros across the EEA as easy as domestic payments within one country are now. The Government supports the Single European Payments Area as long as it delivers real gains for consumers, businesses and the City; and provided it promotes competition between payment service providers and more innovation in the market.

Economic Situation: European Union

Tom Blenkinsop: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer what assessment he has made of the implications for his Department's policies of the risk of a downgrading of the credit rating of bonds issued by the (a) private and (b) public sector in (i) Belgium, (ii) Bulgaria, (iii) Cyprus, (iv) the Czech Republic, (v) Denmark, (vi) Estonia, (vii) Finland, (viii) France, (ix) Germany, (x) Greece, (xi) Hungary, (xii) Ireland, (xiii) Italy, (xiv) Latvia, (xv) Lithuania, (xvi) Luxembourg, (xvii) Malta, (xviii) the Netherlands, (xix) Poland, (xx) Portugal, (xxi) Romania, (xxii) Slovakia, (xxiii) Slovenia, (xxiv) Spain and (xxv) Sweden.

Mark Hoban: The Treasury routinely considers economic and financial risks as part of the normal process of policy development.

Energy: Prices

Stella Creasy: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer what assessment he has made of the effects on the economy of recent trends in domestic energy prices.

Justine Greening: The Government consider a range of factors when assessing prospects for the economy. The Office for Budget Responsibility (OBR) is responsible for producing independent economic and fiscal forecasts. It will publish a fully updated forecast in the autumn.

Equitable Life Assurance Society: Compensation

Karen Lumley: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer what proportion of Equitable Life policyholders will have had their compensation claims processed by the end of September 2011.

Mark Hoban: Payments began on 30 June, and hundreds of payments have been made to date. The Scheme intends to make around £500 million worth of payments to eligible policyholders by April next year, which is a significant logistical exercise. To ensure that the required systems are fully tested and robust, the Scheme's, implementation plan is to make a low volume of payments initially. Payment volumes will continue to be ramped up over the coming months as the Scheme's complex payment processes are refined further.

EU Budget

Priti Patel: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer 
	(1)  what his policy is on the outcome of the Council of Ministers on 25 July 2011 on the EU budget for 2012; and when he expects (a) the negotiations over the EU budget for 2012 to be concluded and (b) the budget to be approved;
	(2)  what representations he made at the Council of Ministers meeting on 25 July 2011 on the EU budget for 2012; and if he will make a statement;
	(3)  for what reasons the EU Council of Ministers agreed on 25 July 2011 to increase the amount of expenditure on administration in the EU between 2011 and 2012;
	(4)  with reference to page 23 of the explanatory memorandum to the draft budget of the European Union for the financial year 2012: Council position of 25 July 2011, for what reasons the EU Council of Ministers agreed to increase the amount of expenditure on the preservation and management of natural resources to 57,161,869,007 euro.

Justine Greening: On 25 July, Council agreed its position on the draft 2012 EU budget, under qualified majority voting and by written procedure. The Government have not supported this position, because they believe that further savings can and should have been made. The Government seek to deliver real budgetary restraint at EU level and will continue to work with others to get the very best deal possible for UK taxpayer in future negotiations on the 2012 EU budget.

EU Budget

Priti Patel: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer for what reasons the explanatory memorandum to the draft budget of the European Union for the financial year 2012: Council position of 25 July 2011 (13110/11) estimates a change in the net amount of revenue the EU will receive from value added tax-based own resource at the uniform rate between 2011 and 2012; and how much of the change in revenue will originate in the UK in (a) 2011 and (b) 2012.

Justine Greening: VAT-based contributions to the EU budget are agreed between the member states and the European Commission but, like forecasts of national tax receipts, are subject to change. The changes in the forecast for 2011 are therefore based on updated estimates for the UK and other member states.
	The updated VAT-based revenues for 2011 and the initial bases for 2012 are as set out in Amending Budget No. 4/2011 and the 2012 draft Budget respectively:
	2011: €14,125,977,050, of which the UK share is €2,525,317,500
	2012: €14,498,917,425, of which the UK share is estimated to be €2,501,556,900.

EU Budget

Priti Patel: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer for what reasons the explanatory memorandum to the draft budget of the European Union for the financial year 2012: Council position of 25 July 2011 (13110/11) estimates a change in net amount of revenue the EU will receive from custom duties and sugar levies between 2011 and 2012; and how much of the change in revenue will originate in the UK in (a) 2011 and (b) 2012.

Justine Greening: The levels of revenue from the different own resources streams for the EU Budget change from one year to the next as the amounts from each resource are not set and estimates will change.
	Amending Budget No. 4 to the EU Budget in 2011 estimates that revenue from Traditional Own Resources (TOR) (customs duties and sugar levies) in 2011 will be €17,867 million, of which the UK share is estimated to be €2,987.8 million. The draft 2012 EU Budget estimates that revenue from this source will be €19,294.6 million, with the UK share estimated to be €3,001.9 million.
	Estimates for TOR in any EU Budget are purely indicative as member states pay across what they collect, less 25% which they retain byway of collection costs.

EU Budget

Priti Patel: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer with reference to page 23 of the explanatory memorandum to the draft budget of the European Union for the financial year 2012: Council position of 25 July 2011, for what reasons the EU Council of Ministers agreed to increase the amount of expenditure on sustainable growth to 55,269,657,370 euro.

Justine Greening: The EU Council agreed its position on the EU budget for 2012 on 25 July. The Government have not supported the Council's position of a 2.02% increase in payments on 2011 levels, and were consistently praised for further savings across all heading areas of the budget which can and should have been made at this stage.
	Heading 1 of the EU budget (sustainable growth) is made up of two sub-headings: heading 1 a (competitiveness for growth and employment) and heading 1 b (cohesion for growth and employment).
	For heading 1 overall, Council agreed, compared to 2011 levels, to a 3.7% increase in payments to EUR 55.27bn, cuts of EUR 2.43 billion in payments compared to the commissions' draft budget.

Financial Services: Regulation

Jonathan Evans: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer if he will bring forward proposals to provide the Financial Conduct Authority with the powers to require independent financial advisers to issue more detailed personalised disclosures of costs and charges presented in an easily understandable format; and if he will make a statement.

Mark Hoban: Subject to European law, the Financial Services Authority (FSA) already has the power under the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 to make rules regarding the disclosure of costs and charges to consumers by financial advisers. The Financial Conduct Authority will have the same ability.
	The FSA currently requires financial advisers to make disclosures about their status, remuneration and any charges taken from the products they sell. The way that product charges are explained is closely prescribed and, in some cases, these requirements are also harmonised at the EU level.
	The FSA is reforming the retail investment market through the Retail Distribution Review (RDR). From the end of 2012, retail financial advisers will need to set their own advice charges which must be discussed and agreed with their clients beforehand. The cost of advice will be separated from any charges taken from the retail investment products sold as a result of that advice, which will increase transparency for the consumer.

Income Tax: Females

Amber Rudd: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer what estimate he has made of the proportion of persons adversely affected by the removal of the 10 pence tax rate in 2007 who were women.

David Gauke: 58% of the individuals whose 2008-09 income tax liabilities were increased by these changes were female.
	This estimate is based on the 2007-08 Survey of Personal Incomes, projected using economic assumptions consistent with the Office for Budget Responsibility's March 2011 economic and fiscal outlook.

Income Tax: Scotland

Michael Weir: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer what estimate he has made of the proportion of persons affected by the removal of the 10 pence tax rate in 2007 who were resident in Scotland.

David Gauke: An estimated 9% of the individuals whose 2008-09 income tax liabilities were increased by these changes were resident in Scotland.
	This estimate is based on the 2007-08 Survey of Personal incomes, projected using economic assumptions consistent with the Office for Budget Responsibility's March 2011 economic and fiscal outlook.

Individual Savings Accounts: Environment Protection

Zac Goldsmith: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer what assessment he has made of the merits of green individual saving accounts.

Mark Hoban: The Government are undertaking analysis into how investment in green industries can be increased. The ISA market is competitive and a number of providers have chosen to offer green, environmental or ethical ISAs.
	The Government are currently considering how best to encourage additional investment in green infrastructure through the Green Investment Bank, and proposals on this were announced in Budget 2011 and further details in May 2011.

Loans: Republic of Ireland

Greg Knight: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer for what reason he reduced the rate of interest on the loan to the Republic of Ireland; and if he will make a statement.

Mark Hoban: The euro area summit on 21 July agreed to lower the interest rate on euro area loans provided by the European Financial Stability Facility (EFSF) to Ireland. The Government welcomed this reduction in EFSF loan interest rates. This allows the UK to reduce the interest rate on our bilateral loan to Ireland, while ensuring all the benefit goes to Ireland and not to higher interest rates paid to euro area governments. The amount by which the interest rate will be reduced is under consideration. The Government will still be more than covering the cost of their borrowing. The loan can be drawn after the approval of the third quarterly review of Ireland's Memorandum of Understanding with the International Monetary Fund and the European Commission.

Local Government Finance

Caroline Flint: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer what assessment his Department has made of the likely effect of increasing the rate of borrowing from the Public Works Loan Board on levels of borrowing by local authorities during the comprehensive spending review period.

Danny Alexander: The Office for Budgetary Responsibility (OBR) published a costing of the impact on capital expenditure financed by borrowing of the increase in Public Works Loan Board interest rates. This covered the spending review period and was published alongside spending review 2010 on 20 October 2011. This was subsequently revised at the OBR's Economic and Fiscal Outlook publication in November 2010 at Table A1, which can be found at:
	http://budgetresponsibility.independent.gov.uk/economic-and-fiscal-outlook-november-2010/

Members: Correspondence

Graham Evans: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer when the Financial Secretary to the Treasury plans to respond to the letters from the hon. Member for Weaver Vale of 23 February and 2 June 2011 on behalf of his constituent, Mr Marc Sutton.

Mark Hoban: I wrote to all hon. Members on 30 March to set out the Government's overall position on the Financial Services Compensation Scheme (FSCS) levies, which was the subject of your constituent's correspondence. This letter was the Treasury's response to outstanding correspondence that hon. Members had raised. I replied on 10 June in response to the hon. Member for Weaver Vale’s further letter of 2 June.

Members: Correspondence

Gerald Kaufman: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer when he intends to answer the letter sent to him by the right hon. Member for Manchester, Gorton on 30 June 2011 with regard to Ms E Matysiak.

Justine Greening: HMRC replied to the right hon. Member on 19 August 2011.

Minimum Wage

John McDonnell: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer how many investigations HM Revenue and Customs' national minimum wage enforcement team have conducted into (a) companies and (b) labour providers in the (i) construction, (ii) care home, (iii) cleaning, (iv) hospitality and (v) catering sectors in each year since 2005.

David Gauke: HMRC does not categorise employers who are subject to a national minimum wage inspection as companies or labour providers. HMRC does categorise employers according to a set of trade sectors. These trade sectors are:
	Clothing/footwear
	Hairdressing
	Hospitality
	Market services
	Other services
	Production/construction
	Public services
	Retail
	Security/cleaning
	Social care
	The number of cases closed in each of the years and trade sectors requested is as follows.
	
		
			  Construction/productio  n Social care security/cleaning Hospitality 
			 2005-06 480 484 188 944 
			 2006-07 382 414 129 733 
			 2007-08 385 443 148 812 
			 2008-09 412 322 145 1,050 
			 2009-10 344 256 132 952 
			 2010-11 265 213 150 675

National Insurance Contributions: New Businesses

Tracey Crouch: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer 
	(1)  whether he has considered extending the areas of eligibility for the national insurance contributions holiday scheme to include the South East;
	(2)  what assessment he has made of the effects on new businesses in the South East of not being eligible for the national insurance contributions holiday scheme.

Catherine McKinnell: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer what assessment he has made of the merits of extending the national insurance contributions holiday for businesses currently under the scheme; and if he will make a statement.

David Gauke: The information is as follows:
	(i) The policy is designed to support new businesses in parts of the country that are most reliant on the public sector. The Government have considered the case for extending the NICs holiday to all regions but believes the best use of public funds at this time is to keep the NICs holiday as a targeted scheme for those areas in most need of employment support.
	(ii) An impact assessment for the policy has been carried out and published which included a competition assessment:
	http://www.hmrc.gov.uk/budget-updates/reg-nic-holiday.pdf
	This concluded that there would not be any significant distortion to competition from the policy. This is a temporary scheme and the majority of businesses benefiting will be small and operating in local markets.
	(iii) The Government have considered the case for extending the NICs holiday scheme further but believes the best use of public funds is to target the NICs holiday at the early and most vulnerable stage for a new business. The policy is designed to assist new businesses in their first year, reducing the costs of hiring staff and improving the likelihood of business survival.

National Insurance Contributions: New Businesses

Nicholas Dakin: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer how many businesses in (a) North Lincolnshire and (b) Scunthorpe have benefited from the national insurance contributions holiday scheme.

Catherine McKinnell: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer pursuant to the answer of 29 June 2011, Official Report, column 818W, on national insurance contributions, how many successful applications for the national insurance contributions holiday have been received from businesses based in Newcastle upon Tyne North constituency since the scheme's inception.

Robin Walker: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer how many businesses in (a) Worcester constituency and (b) Worcestershire have registered for the national insurance contributions holiday scheme for new businesses.

David Gauke: The information is as follows:
	(i) As of 31 July, HMRC has received (a) 14 successful applications from businesses in North Lincolnshire constituency and (b) five successful applications from businesses in Scunthorpe constituency for the NICs holiday.
	(ii) As of 31 July, HMRC has received 14 successful applications from businesses in Newcastle-upon-Tyne North constituency.
	(iii) As of 31 July, HMRC has received (a) 38 successful applications from businesses in Worcester constituency and (b) 670 successful applications from business in the West Midlands as a whole. Information on NUTS3 region level for Worcestershire is not available.

Offshore Industry

Jim McGovern: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer what recent assessment his Department has made of the effects of the proposals in the 2011 Budget on the UK oil and gas industry.

Justine Greening: As set out in the relevant Tax Information and Impact Note published alongside the Budget, which can be found at:
	http://www.hmrc.gov.uk/budget2011/tiin6133.htm
	The Government does not expect a significant impact on investment or production in the forecast period as a consequence of this measure.

Poverty: Children

Jim Cunningham: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer what steps he is taking to reduce child poverty (a) in the West Midlands and (b) nationally; and if he will make a statement.

Maria Miller: I have been asked to reply.
	A reply to this question has been delayed due to an administrative error and I apologise for any inconvenience this has caused.
	This Government are committed to eradicating child poverty in the UK by 2020. We published our first child poverty strategy, “A New Approach to Child Poverty: Tackling the Causes of Disadvantage and Transforming Families' Lives”, covering the period to 2014, in April this year. It sets out a new approach to tackling poverty and securing, social justice aimed at transforming lives and tackling the causes of poverty. At its heart are the principles of work, fairness, responsibility and support for the most vulnerable. It draws together our radical programme of reform of welfare and education, tackling worklessness and benefit dependency and increasing children's life chances, with tailored support to overcome barriers and a greater concentration on early intervention and on whole-family and whole-life measures.
	Our strategy establishes a UK-wide framework for tackling child poverty. It confirms our intention to support local authorities and their partners in meeting their duties under the Child Poverty Act 2010 to assess child poverty needs in their areas and publish strategies to reduce its level and mitigate its effects.
	We are working with local authorities to develop new ways of pooling budgets and commissioning and delivering services through initiatives such as Community Budgets (Birmingham is a Community Budget area), Social Return on Investment and Payment by Results. We are drawing on our strong local networks to embed an evidence-based focus on what works best in sustainably eradicating child poverty, including sharing evidence from across the suite of child poverty pilots (which included a child poverty innovation pilot in North Warwickshire, a teenage parents in supported housing pilot in Worcestershire) and to ensure local experiences are properly reflected in the development of our national policy.

Social Security Benefits: Overseas Residence

Stewart Jackson: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer pursuant to the answer to the hon. Member for St Albans of 14 July 2011, Official Report, column 461W, on habitual residence, whether he intends to (a) collect data and (b) estimate expenditure in respect of the value of family benefits paid under the EC regulations to non-UK EU citizens; and if he will make a statement.

David Gauke: EC Regulation 883/2004 protects the social security rights of nationals of all member states of the European Economic Area (EEA), including the UK, when they exercise their rights of free movement under European law.
	Around 7.5 million families are currently claiming child benefit for around 13 million children. Out of that total, at 30 June 2011, there were 24,190 ongoing child benefit awards under EC Regulation 883/2004 to nationals of other member states in respect of 40,635 children living in another member state. That equates to around 0.32% of all child benefit awards. The breakdown by nationality is as follows:
	
		
			 Country Number of ongoing awards as at 30 June 2011 Number of children in ongoing awards as at 30 June 2011 
			 Austria 34 52 
			 Belgium 155 303 
			 Bulgaria 142 186 
			 Cyprus 61 87 
			 Czech Republic 168 277 
			 Denmark 18 33 
			 Estonia 28 39 
			 Finland 20 38 
			 France 1,257 2,320 
			 Germany 339 583 
			 Greece 57 85 
			 Hungary 103 157 
			 Iceland 3 5 
			 Italy 199 336 
			 Latvia 536 732 
			 Lithuania 982 1,342 
			 Luxembourg 12 25 
			 Malta 19 27 
			 Norway 40 73 
			 Poland 16,230 27,018 
		
	
	
		
			 Portugal 246 368 
			 Republic of Ireland 1,086 2,251 
			 Romania 158 264 
			 Slovakia 1,077 1,870 
			 Slovenia 6 10 
			 Spain 832 1,386 
			 Sweden 60 114 
			 Switzerland 117 244 
			 The Netherlands 205 410 
			 Totals 24,190 40,635 
		
	
	As advised in the reply to the hon. Member for St Albans, information about the value of family benefits awarded by the UK under EC Regulation 883/2004 is available only at disproportionate costs.

Telephone Services: Government Departments

Richard Harrington: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer how much revenue the Government have received from each Government helpline using an 0845 number in the latest period for which figures are available.

Danny Alexander: The information requested is not held centrally by the Treasury.

Valuation: Appeals

Simon Danczuk: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer 
	(1)  what the average time taken by the Valuation Office Agency to process an appeal against a rating assessment was in the latest period for which figures are available;
	(2)  with reference to the 2010 revaluation scheme, how many appeals against Valuation Office Agency rating assessments are outstanding in each parliamentary constituency;
	(3)  with reference to the 2010 revaluation scheme, how many appeals against Valuation Office Agency rating assessments have been lodged in each parliamentary constituency since 1 April 2010.

David Gauke: The VOA is committed to maintaining the accuracy of the rating list and makes every effort to ensure formal challenges are settled as quickly and efficiently as possible.
	The average time taken to process a formal challenge, brought against the 2010 local rating list, in England, in the 2010-11 financial year, ignoring weekends and bank holidays, is around 110 days.
	Statistics on both the number of formal challenges received by the Valuation Office Agency (VOA) against the 2010 Local Rating List in the 2010-11 financial year, and the number of formal challenges that remained outstanding at the end of the 2010-11 financial year, by each administrative area of England and Wales, are published on the VOA website in Tables 3.2 and 3.4, respectively. This information can be found in the following location:
	http://www.voa.gov.uk/corporate/statisticalReleases/localRatingListChallenges.html
	Equivalent statistics broken down by parliamentary constituency can be provided only at disproportionate cost.

VAT: Golf

Gordon Henderson: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer for what reasons private golf courses are exempt from value added tax on (a) subscription fees and (b) green fees.

David Gauke: The principal VAT directive, which governs the application of VAT in the European Union requires member states to apply a VAT exemption to certain activities in the public interest, including supplies of sporting services by non-profit making organisations. Subscription fees charged by non-profit-making golf clubs are therefore exempt from VAT. The exemption does not extend to subscription fees received by proprietary (profit-making) clubs.
	HMRC consider that, under UK law, green fees paid by non-members to both non-profit-making and proprietary clubs are taxable. In a recent decision, the First Tier Tribunal found that green fees paid by non-members to non-profit making golf clubs were exempt. HMRC has been given leave to appeal this decision to the Upper Tier Tribunal and businesses should continue to treat these green fees as taxable pending a decision of the Upper Tier Tribunal.

Written Questions: Government Responses

Jim Cunningham: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer when he plans to answer Question 43486 tabled on 25 February 2011 for answer on 1 March 2011 relating to child poverty.

Justine Greening: The hon. Member’s question was transferred to the Department for Work and Pensions on 1 March.

CULTURE MEDIA AND SPORT

Arts

Ivan Lewis: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport pursuant to the answer of 23 May 2011, Official Report, column 345W, on arts, when he expects to announce details of his framework for quantifying the economic contribution of the Department's sectors.

Jeremy Hunt: The Department, alongside Arts Council England, continues to work on this long-term project and will announce details of any publication on its website as soon as they are available. We currently anticipate that we will be in a better position to clarify plans for outputs later this year.

British Sky Broadcasting: News Corporation

Ivan Lewis: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport whether any adviser or official in his Department discussed News Corporation's proposed acquisition of BSkyB with advisers or officials working for the Prime Minister between 23 December 2010 and 12 July 2011.

Jeremy Hunt: This was a quasi-judicial decision for which I had to exercise my judgment, having sought advice from independent regulators. As such there were no discussions on the substance of my decision about News Corporation's proposed acquisition of BskyB between advisers and officials from my Department, and advisers and officials working for the Prime Minister between 23 December and 12 July 2011. The Prime Minister and No. 10 did not seek to influence the decision.
	My officials did, on occasions during this period, explain the procedure I was following with officials working for the Prime Minister.

British Sky Broadcasting: News Corporation

Ivan Lewis: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport if he will publish his letter to the Competition Commission referring to it the matter of News Corporation's proposed acquisition of BSkyB.

Jeremy Hunt: My reference to the Competition Commission under Section 58 of the Enterprise Act 2002 dated 13 July has been published on my Department's website.
	All published documents relating to the News Corp/BSkyB merger can be found using the link:
	http://www.culture.gov.uk/publications/7880.aspx

Broadband

David Hanson: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport what estimate he has made of the monetary value of expenditure in super-fast broadband by (a) the Government and (b) the private sector in each of the last five years.

Edward Vaizey: The Government have not made any specific estimates, but are committed to investing £530 million over the lifetime of this Parliament to help deliver superfast broadband to areas of the UK that the market will not reach unaided. The market is expected to deliver superfast broadband to approximately two thirds of households, which includes a £2.5 billion investment commitment from BT, as well as significant investment from Virgin Media and a number of smaller companies.

Broadband: Finance

Fiona O'Donnell: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport when he expects to make an announcement on the allocation of funds for superfast broadband.

Edward Vaizey: The announcements on the allocations were made during July and August.

Broadcasting: Welsh Language

Jonathan Edwards: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport whether he has met (a) Welsh Ministers and (b) the Secretary of State for Wales to discuss the future of Welsh language broadcasting, including the devolution functions; and if he will make a statement.

Edward Vaizey: The Secretary of State for Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport has had a number of meetings with the Secretary of State for Wales that covers a wide variety of topics.

Communications Bill

Ivan Lewis: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport if he will include the issue of future cross-media ownership in any consultation on the proposed Communications Bill.

Jeremy Hunt: I have said that we will be considering a potential weakness in the media plurality public interest powers, in our work for the new Communications Bill, including any consultation. In addition, as set out by the Prime Minister, Lord Justice Leveson's Inquiry will also be looking at the issues of cross media ownership. The intention is for recommendations in these areas to feed into our considerations for the Bill.

Communications Bill

Ivan Lewis: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport what plans he has for the consultation on a new Communications Bill in light of the establishment of the judicial inquiry into telephone hacking.

Jeremy Hunt: The Government have committed to legislate during this Parliament to modernise regulation governing the communications sector. It is a Government priority and work has already begun. Lord Leveson's inquiry looking at press regulation will contribute to the future Bill and decisions on timing will be taken when this essential work is further advanced.

Creative Industries Council

Alison McGovern: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport 
	(1)  what criteria he applied to determine the persons to be invited to join the Creative Industries Council;
	(2)  if he will make it his policy to place in the Library a copy of the (a) agenda and (b) minutes of each meeting of the Creative Industries Council.

Edward Vaizey: I refer the hon. Member to the answers given by the Secretary of State for Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport, my right hon. Friend the Member for South West Surrey (Mr Hunt), to the hon. Member for Bury South (Mr Lewis) on 16 May 2011, Official Report, columns 4-5W.

Creative Industries Council

Alison McGovern: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport how many employees each company represented on the Creative Industries Council has in each region.

Edward Vaizey: This Department does not hold a regional breakdown for employees for each of the Creative Industries Council members. While the creative industries do have a London and south-east England focus, there are major centres in other regions of England, and we would expect the members of the Council to reflect that.

Cultural Education Review

Ivan Lewis: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport whether the Henley review of cultural education will report to him.

Jeremy Hunt: The review of Cultural Education being undertaken by Darren Henley will report to both my Department and the Department for Education.

Departmental Advertising

Gavin Williamson: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport how much his Department has spent on (a) television, (b) radio and (c) newspaper advertising in (i) real and (ii) nominal terms between January 2008 and June 2009; and what the total cost to the public purse was.

John Penrose: The Department for Culture, Media and Sport did not spend anything on radio and television advertising during this period. It used newspaper advertisements for the purposes of recruitment and spent £37,357.49 on this between January 2008 and June 2009.

Departmental Air Travel

John Mann: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport on what occasions he has flown on official business (a) by budget airline and (b) in economy class in the last 12 months.

John Penrose: The information requested is set out in the following table:
	
		
			 Date Destination Flight 
			 October 2010 San Francisco/Los Angeles Economy 
			 November 2010 Kuala Lumpur Economy 
			 November 2010 Zurich Budget Airline 
			 March 2011 Dublin Budget Airline

Departmental Billing

Gavin Williamson: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport how many late payments his Department has made to contractors between January 2008 and June 2009; and what the cost to the public purse was of any (a) penalty charges or (b) interest charges incurred in that period.

John Penrose: The number of invoices paid later than 30 days during this period was 108 (1.4% of transactions).
	There are no separate records maintained in respect of penalty or interest charges incurred, if any. This information could be provided only at disproportionate cost, as it would involve checking details of all invoices paid during the period.

Departmental Consultants

Austin Mitchell: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport how many senior civil servants in his Department at each grade had worked for PricewaterhouseCoopers, Ernst and Young, Deloitte or KPMG immediately prior to taking up their appointment in each of the last four years; what consultancy agreements his Department had with those firms in each such year; and how many consultants from those firms have advised his Department in each such year.

John Penrose: The Department for Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) does not hold centrally a record of the number of its staff who worked for any of the four firms listed, immediately prior to taking up their appointment in the last four years, A full list of consultancy agreements taken out by DCMS' Government Olympic Executive (GOE), as well as the number of consultants from each firm who have advised the Department, are detailed by financial year in the following tables:
	
		
			 Year 2007-08 
			 Firm Number of agreements Number of advisers 
			 KPMG 0 0 
			 PWC 2 4 
			 Ernst and Young 0 0 
			 Deloitte 4 4 
		
	
	
		
			 Year 2008-09 
			 Firm Number of agreements Number of advisers 
			 KPMG 0 0 
			 PWC 1 1 
			 Ernst and Young 0 0 
			 Deloitte 0 0 
		
	
	
		
			 Year 2009-10 
			 Firm Number of agreements Number of advisers 
			 KPMG 0 0 
			 PWC 5 12 
			 Ernst and Young 1 1 
			 Deloitte 0 0 
		
	
	
		
			 Year 2010-11 
			 Firm Number of agreements Number of advisers 
			 KPMG 0 0 
			 PWC 0 0 
			 Ernst and Young 1 1 
			 Deloitte 0 0 
		
	
	Other contractual—although not necessarily consultancy —agreements taken out by DCMS and the four named firms, are as follows. It has not been possible to provide the number of consultants who worked on each contract as these data are not held centrally by our Finance or Property and Procurement teams. All invoices owed to a company are normally fixed. As such, a range of people might be involved who are not necessarily detailed in the firm's bid.
	
		
			 Calendar year 2007 
			 Firm Number of agreements Purpose of contract 
			 KPMG 0 — 
			 PWC 1 Assessment of World Heritage Sites 
			 Ernst and Young 0 — 
			 Deloitte 2 ICT compliance review; DCMS transformation programme 
		
	
	
		
			 Calendar year 2008 
			 Firm Number of agreements Purpose of contract 
			 KPMG 0 — 
			 PWC 1 Wind up of regional cultural consortiums 
			 Ernst and Young 1 Due diligence on the Tote 
			 Deloitte 1 IT security review 
		
	
	
		
			 Calendar year 2009 
			 Firm Number of agreements Purpose of contract 
			 KPMG 0  
			 PWC 1 Equal pay audit 
			 Ernst and Young 0  
			 Deloitte 1 IT security review 
		
	
	There were no contractual agreements taken out with any of the four firms listed in 2010.

Departmental Correspondence

Austin Mitchell: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport how many letters his Department received from hon. Members in June 2011.

John Penrose: The Department received 536 letters and 15 emails from hon. Members in June 2011.

Departmental Ministerial Policy Advisers

Gavin Williamson: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport how many (a) special advisers and (b) press officers were employed by his Department between January 2008 and June 2009; and what the cost to the public purse was in (i) cash and (ii) real terms of such appointments.

John Penrose: The Department employed three special advisers and 24 press officers between January 2008 and June 2009. The salary cost in cash terms and in real terms, to the public purse, is in the following table:
	
		
			 £ 
			 Job title 2008-09   (c  ash terms  ) 2011   (r  eal terms  ) 
			 Special advisers 279,522.19 271,136,34 
			 Press officers 1,118,609.39 1,085,050.73

Departmental Mobile Phones

Gavin Williamson: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport how many mobile telephones and BlackBerrys were provided to staff in his Department between January 2008 and June 2009; and what the cost to the public purse was of (a) line rental, (b) insurance and (c) the purchase of such telecommunications equipment.

John Penrose: The Department spent £124,265.40 on line rental and usage and £10,974.81 on other items, such as batteries, Sim cards and cases between January 2008 and June 2009. No insurance costs were incurred.
	We are unable to separate line rental from usage because our records do not allow this and we do not hold the information about the provision of mobile telephones and BlackBerrys to staff within that period.

Departmental Official Cars

Gavin Williamson: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport what the cost to the public purse was of (a) cars leased by his Department to staff and (b) Ministerial chauffeurs between January 2008 and June 2009.

John Penrose: The Department for Culture, Media and Sport does not lease cars to staff or Ministers. Cars for Ministers were supplied through the Government Car and Despatch Agency (GCDA). The charge for this service is based on time per job rather than dividing the car and driver cost. The cost of GCDA cars supplied to Ministers in the period January 2008 to June 2009 was £457,076.73.

Departmental Official Hospitality

Steve Rotheram: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport how much his Department has spent on hospitality for staff since May 2010.

John Penrose: The Department has a strict policy restricting the use of hospitality. All expenditure is incurred in accordance with the principles of Managing Public Money and the Treasury handbook on Regularity and Propriety.
	Hospitality can only be incurred on behalf of visitors from outside the public sector, where the value of the work related discussions is recognised to assist the taking forward of business. Hospitality normally takes the form of tea and coffee, and exceptionally includes lunch. There is a presumption that in all cases the number of civil servants must not exceed the number of guests. All hospitality expenditure must be approved at a senior level.
	The departmental spend on hospitality since May 2010, predominantly for visitors rather than departmental staff, is £28,201.22

Departmental Procurement

Owen Smith: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport what methodology (a) his Department and (b) the non-departmental public bodies for which he is responsible used to estimate savings to the public purse made in respect of its procurement and purchasing since May 2010.

John Penrose: The Chief Secretary to the Treasury, the right hon. Member for Inverness, Nairn, Badenoch and Strathspey (Danny Alexander), said in response to PQ16752 on 15 November 2010,
	Official Report
	, columns 615-16W, that the Government had announced a more specific and innovative approach to efficiency and reform across the public sector, including:
	a reduction in administration budgets of 34% across the whole of Whitehall and its arm's length bodies saving £5.9 billion a year by 2014-15;
	radically reducing the number of arm's length bodies across government; and
	the Efficiency and Reform Group's tough new efficiency regime which will drive savings in procurement, major projects and estate management;
	and in result, Departments would no longer be required to report against the previous Government's efficiency targets.
	In August 2011, the Minister for the Cabinet Office and Paymaster General, the right hon. Member for Horsham (Mr Maude), announced that the Efficiency and Reform Group's new measures had saved £3.75 billion over 2010-11. This impact was assessed using methodologies described in the following table. The assessment has been independently verified by Government auditors who found the benefits assertions to be fairly calculated and presented. As part of this, Table 11 of the DCMS Report and Accounts 2010-11 (HC1002) reports that non-pay gross admin costs for my Department (excluding provisions) reduced from £26.8 million in 2009-10 to £25.0 million in 2010-11. Figures in this report are prepared in accordance with HM Treasury's Financial Reporting Manual for central Government Departments and associated Treasury accounting and budgeting guidance.
	This information also applies to all of the Department's public bodies.
	
		
			 Activity and calculation method 
			 Area Activity description Evidence base/calculation 
			 Consulting Government put in place a moratorium on new consulting spend, and extensions to existing contracts. Where spend was considered operationally critical (for example, where it might put at risk critical services) an exception process existed for Department Ministers to sign off expenditure over £20,000. Savings are calculated by subtracting total departmental reported spend on consultancy for 2010-11 from total departmental reported spend on consultancy for 2009-10. To reduce the risk of costs shifting between categories, we also monitored expenditure on other professional services categories, including contingent labour. 
			    
			 Crown Commercial Government have renegotiated deals with some of the largest suppliers to government. The method of calculation varies according to the initiative that yields the saving, but was based on cash releasing savings against a baseline of what would have otherwise been spent This was often price savings against the previous price paid. Savings agreed with suppliers are recorded in Memoranda of Understanding as guaranteed-in-year or conditional-in-year savings. Realised savings were subsequently tracked back to departmental verification of supplier progress reports. 
			    
			 Contingent Labour Government have significantly cut the number of temporary staff. Savings are calculated by subtracting total departmental reported spend on contingent labour for 2010-11 from total departmental reported spend on contingent labour for 2009-10. 
			    
		
	
	
		
			 Communications Government froze all new marketing spend unless it is an operational necessity. Where spend was proposed, ministerial sign-off was required for £20,000 or above. Calculations compare departmental spend on marketing and advertising through COI for 2010-11 with that for 2009-10. 
			    
			 Centralising Procurement Government have started to centralise spend on common goods and services to drive down prices. These savings derive from the 10 categories of expenditure targeted for centralisation, and relate to price savings through increased aggregation. For each initiative, calculations are performed using individual benefit methodologies that set out how savings will be calculated against an 2009-10 market price baseline. Evidence is management information provided by suppliers. 
			    
			 ICT We implemented: (a) a moratorium on all new ICT spend above £1 million; and (b) a review of all on-going ICT commitments. Departments also reported those projects that were closed before undergoing the review. Calculations are based on departmental reports of spend that has not proceeded. Spend that has not gone ahead in 2010-11 is recorded, as a result of stopping or reducing spend. Further, sustainable savings are targeted through the Government ICT strategy. 
			    
			 Major Projects We reviewed the Government's biggest projects to see where 2010-11 costs could practically be reduced within contractual constraints, or wasteful projects stopped altogether. We have halted or curtailed spend on four projects: 14-19 Reform—£60 million Identity Cards—£50 million Highways Agency Projects—£54 million Whole Farm—£5 million We have redacted £22 million of potential double counting from these figures, that arises between this work and our supplier renegotiation work stream. £14.9 million arises from the Home Office National Identity Cards and £6.7 million from DEFRA Whole Farm. HMT have provided assurance that the relevant amounts were removed from departmental budgets following the Major Projects related negotiations 
			    
			 Property We put in place national property controls such that signature of new property leases or lease extensions were approved centrally. It has not always been possible to net off all costs associated with vacating buildings. However, we have also not claimed savings in respect of revenue from property disposals. Calculations are property by property based on the amount Departments have reported saved through the Government's property database by non-renewal of property leases at lease breaks or upon lease expiry

Departmental Rail Travel

Gavin Williamson: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport what the cost to the public purse was for (a) first class and (b) all train travel by (i) Ministers, (ii) staff and (iii) special advisers in his Department between January 2008 and June 2009.

John Penrose: The Department for Culture, Media and Sport's expenditure on train travel in the period January 2008 to June 2009, is set out in the following table:
	
		
			 DCMS train travel January 2008 to June 2009 
			  Expenditure (£) 
			 Ministers first class travel 11,681.10 
			 Other staff first class travel 40,784.60 
			 Other train travel 62,995.35 
			 Total 115,461.05 
		
	
	The Department's accounting system does not separate out the special advisers travel costs, but these are included in the other staff figures.

Departmental Stationery

Gavin Williamson: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport what the cost to the public purse was of stationery purchased by his Department between January 2008 and June 2009.

John Penrose: During the period January 2008 to June 2009 the Department for Culture, Media, and Sport spent a total of £61,411.61 including VAT on stationery and office supplies.

Departmental Training

Gavin Williamson: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport what the (a) date, (b) location, (c) number of attendees and (d) cost to the public purse was for each (i) away day and (ii) team building activity organised for staff in his Department between January 2008 and June 2009.

John Penrose: The Department arranged 12 team away days and events in 2008-09. The cost, location and purpose of these are in the following table:
	
		
			 Purpose of team away day Location Cost (£) 
			 Sport and Leisure Team building and strategy formulation Harte and Garter, Windsor 1,216.60 
			 All Staff full day Conference Royal Festival Hall, London 7,087.63 
			 Public Engagement and Recognition Team Building Wellcome Collection, London 1733.13 
			 Olympic Programme Office Team Building Westway Sports Centre, London 293.75 
			 HMG involvement with London 2012 Olympics The Royal Horseguards Hotel, London 1,405 
			 HMG involvement with London 2012 Olympics Wembley Stadium 405.40 
			 Government Olympic Executive Business Plan Review and Team Building Lee Valley Regional Park Authority, Enfield 3,276.35 
			 HMG involvement with London 2012 Olympics The Jerwood Space Ltd, London 840,13 
			 HMG involvement with London 2012 Olympics The Royal Horseguards Hotel, London 866 
			 HMG involvement with London 2012 Olympics Wallacespace, London 2,415 
			 HMG involvement with London 2012 Olympics Somerset House, London 7,642 
			 Private Office Team Building Regus and Urban Golf, London 1,415.74 
		
	
	The remaining details requested are not held centrally and could be collated only at disproportionate cost.

Departmental Visits Abroad

Gavin Williamson: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport how many overseas visits were made by (a) Ministers, (b) staff and (c) special advisers in his Department between January 2008 and June 2009; and what the cost to the public purse was of each such visit.

John Penrose: Ministers’ visits abroad are undertaken in accordance with the Ministerial Code. Information relating to flights taken is published in the annual list of Ministers’ overseas travel costing more than £500, and indicates when officials accompanied them. The lists for 2008-09 and 2009-10 can be accessed at:
	www.cabinetoffice.gov.uk/resource-library/ministers-overseas-travel
	The details and costs for officials’ overseas visits are not centrally collated and could be produced only at disproportionate cost.

Departmental Work Experience

Bridget Phillipson: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport how many (a) persons undertaking unpaid work experience, (b) unpaid interns and (c) other persons in unpaid positions were working in his Department as of 1 July 2011.

John Penrose: As of 1 July 2011, there were no persons undertaking unpaid work experience, internships or positions within the Department for Culture, Media and Sport.

Diamond Jubilee 2012: Medals

Lady Hermon: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport what consultation he undertook with other governments of the Commonwealth on the eligibility criteria for the Diamond Jubilee Medal.

Hugh Robertson: Commonwealth nations were not consulted on the eligibility criteria for the UK Diamond Jubilee medal, since they produce their own medals. I understand both Canada and the Caribbean Realms will be producing medals to mark The Queen's Diamond Jubilee next year.

Football: Public Participation

Ian Austin: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport what estimate he has made of the average monthly number of participants in (a) five-a-side and (b) 11-a-side football.

Hugh Robertson: The latest Active People survey (April 2010 to April 2011), sets out that 1.8 million people play small sided football at least once a month and just over one million people participate in 11 aside football at least once a month. A total of 3.1 million participate in some form of football at least once a month.

Football: VAT

Ian Austin: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport what discussions he has had with (a) Sport England, (b) the Football Association and (c) the Fitness Industry Association on the effects on grassroots sport of the proposed change in VAT status for five-a-side league football.

Hugh Robertson: The Secretary of State has had no discussions with Sport England, the Football Association or the Fitness Industry Association on the proposed change in VAT status for five-a-side football on participation in grassroots sport. Officials are looking at this issue with Sport England and will be providing Ministers with advice shortly.

Government Art Collection

Tom Watson: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport which works of art from the Government Art Collection are located in each official Ministerial residence and what the (a) title and (b) artist is of each.

Edward Vaizey: I will arrange for lists of the Government Art Collection works of art located in official Ministers' residences (Admiralty House Flat 1, 1 Carlton Gardens and 10 and 11 Downing street) to be placed in the Libraries of both Houses.

Government Procurement Card

Gavin Williamson: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport how many Government Procurement Cards were used by staff of his Department between January 2008 and June 2009; and what the (a) name of the supplier, (b) date and (c) value was of each transaction during this period.

John Penrose: A table detailing parts (a), (b) and (c) of the information you have requested has been placed in the House Libraries. 75 Government Procurement Cards were used by departmental staff between January 2008 and June 2009.

Hospitality

John Mann: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport what (a) lunches and (b) dinners he has attended at the expense of the host since his appointment; on what dates; and with whom.

John Penrose: Details of hospitality over £140, received by the Secretary of State and Ministers in this Department since being appointed to 31 December 2010, are published on the Departmental website:
	http://www.transparency.culture.gov.uk/2010/10/
	Details for the next quarter will be published shortly.

Hotels

Gavin Williamson: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport what the cost to the public purse was of (a) four star, (b) five star and (c) other hotel accommodation for (i) staff, (ii) Ministers and (iii) special advisers in his Department between January 2008 and June 2009.

John Penrose: The Department spent £30,122 on hotels for staff and £1,466 for Ministers between January 2008 and June 2009. The Department does not record the star ratings of hotels that have been booked and cannot therefore provide the costs specific to four or five star hotels. The Department's accounting system does not separate out the special advisers hotel costs, but these are included in the staff figures.

Internet: Suicide

Rushanara Ali: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport what his policy is on restricting access to websites which promote suicide.

Edward Vaizey: It is an offence to commit an act capable of encouraging or assisting the suicide or attempted suicide of another person with the intention to so encourage or assist.
	While websites which promote suicide are illegal, the internet can provide an opportunity to be able to reach out to vulnerable individuals who would otherwise be reluctant to seek information, help or support from other agencies.
	Content providers will generally remove content that breaks their terms of service, including illegal material on suicide and other material that they consider harmful and inappropriate. Government also works with search engines and social media sites to ensure that ready access is provided to trusted suicide prevention and support services.

Local Broadcasting: Television

Ivan Lewis: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport what estimate he has made of the likely costs, including administrative costs, of establishing a new framework for local television services; and if he will make a statement.

Jeremy Hunt: A detailed impact assessment, which fully considers the costs and benefits of establishing a new framework for local television, can be found here
	http://www.culture.gov.uk/consultations/8298.aspx

Mass Media

Gavin Williamson: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport what the cost to the public purse was of his Department's national media coverage evaluations in each month between January 2008 and June 2009.

John Penrose: Echo Research Ltd was commissioned to conduct an evaluation of the media coverage of London's Olympics, which concluded in July 2008.
	The invoice for this work was received in August 2009. The cost was £3,810.53.
	No other formal evaluations of media coverage were carried out during the period in question.

Mobile Phones: Fees and Charges

Graeme Morrice: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport what recent discussions he has had with (a) mobile telephone companies and (b) the European Commission regarding mobile telephone roaming charges; and if he will make a statement.

Edward Vaizey: Telecommunications policy, including international mobile roaming charges, is a matter for the Department for Culture Media and Sport and the independent regulator, Ofcom. The Secretary of State for Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport has not had any recent discussion with either mobile network operators or the European Commission on this matter.
	Officials have recently been involved in discussions with the European Commission and other member states, at the Communications Committee (COCOM) and at Council Working Group level, on the recent draft Regulation on Roaming charges, As part of their ongoing dialogue with communications suppliers, officials have also discussed roaming, and the recent Commission proposals, with Telefonica O2, Hutchison Three and Vodafone.

National Lottery: Scotland

Cathy Jamieson: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport 
	(1)  what consultation he has had with Ministers in the Scottish Executive on the determination of priorities for lottery funds allocated for use in Scotland;
	(2)  what plans he has for the future role of Ministers in the Scottish Executive in determining priorities for lottery funds allocated for use in Scotland.

John Penrose: The Secretary of State for Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport and I have not discussed the determination of priorities for lottery funding in Scotland with Scottish Ministers. Under the devolution arrangements, such matters are for Scottish Ministers to determine through the policy directions they issue to lottery distributors. There are no plans to change this.

Newspaper Press

Ivan Lewis: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport what the date and venue was of each meeting he has had with newspaper (a) editors, (b) executives and (c) proprietors since his appointment.

Jeremy Hunt: No.10 maintains a transparency website containing links to each Government Department's quarterly reports, listing Minister's meetings with outside interest groups. The most recent report is entitled DCMS Ministerial hospitality, overseas travel and meetings with outside interest groups: 1 January to 31 March 2011:
	http://www.transparency.culture.gov.uk/2011/07/26/dcms-ministerial-hospitality-overseas-travel-and-meetings-with-outside-interest-groups-jan-mar2011/
	In addition, a list of all my meetings with proprietors, editors and senior media executives for the period 11 May 2010 to 15 July 2011:
	http://www.transparency.culture.gov.uk/2011/07/26/sos-meetings-with-proprietors-editors-and-senior-media-executives-11may1-15jul11/
	have recently been published.
	These reports can be found using the link:
	http://www.transparency.culture.gov.uk/2011/07/

Olympic Games 2012

Tom Greatrex: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport how many London 2012 Olympic business suppliers and procurement events have been held in (a) Scotland, (b) England and (c) Wales in the last 12 months; and who was responsible for advertising, publicity and promotion in each nation.

Hugh Robertson: The information the hon. Member has requested has not been centrally collated.
	The London 2012 Business Network promotes opportunities from the Olympic Delivery Authority (ODA) and the London 2012 Organising Committee (LOCOG), through events, communications, business bulletins and CompeteFor. The ODA and LOCOG also undertake visits to the nations and regions to promote games-related contract opportunities and host business delegations to the Olympic Park. Overall, nearly 50% of contracts awarded to date are to companies outside of London, with two-thirds of these small and medium-sized enterprises. The ODA held 60 events between June 2007 and April 2010 and visited every nation and region during the height of its procurement activity, and engaged with over 10,000 businesses. The programme of events concluded in April 2010 as much of the procurement work had been completed. LOCOG's engagement with businesses is still continuing.

Olympic Games 2012

Julie Elliott: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport pursuant to the answer of 24 May 2011, Official Report, column 510W, on Olympic Games 2012, who sits on the LOCOG North Eastern Advisory Group; which organisations they represent; and what process was used to determine the membership of the Advisory Group.

Hugh Robertson: The London Organising Committee of the Olympic and Paralympic Games (LOCOG) is responsible for the Olympic Torch Relay, LOCOG is a private company operating independently of Government.
	LOCOG have advised the Department that the organisations that formed the Torch Advisory Group in the North-East include One North East; Arts Council England; Sport England; the Strategic Health Authority, NHS North-East; the Association of North-East councils; Gateshead council (as it chairs the ANEC local authority working group); the BBC; and Cleveland police (on behalf of all North-East police forces). Government Office for the North-East was on the group while it existed.
	During the bid, the Nations and Regions Group was established to ensure engagement with the London 2012 Games and maximise their benefits across the UK. Since the bid was won in 2005, the London 2012 Board for the North East was established to work with local stakeholders and through the central Nations and Regions Group. The membership of the Torch Relay Advisory Group in the North-East reflects that of the broader board and was established in consultation with them.

Olympic Games 2012

Anne Main: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport if he will consider placing direct web links to accommodation in counties which are hosting Olympic events on the London 2012 Olympics accommodation website.

Hugh Robertson: The London 2012 Organising Committee (LOCOG) is responsible for the
	http://www.london2012.com
	website, which includes a section on accommodation, LOCOG is a private company, independent of Government.
	As the acknowledged tourism authorities, the London 2012 Organising Committee website links directly to VisitBritain and London & Partners (formerly Visit London) accommodation pages to showcase the latest options for accommodation for those visiting the UK and London around Games-time.

Olympic Games 2012: Employment

Rushanara Ali: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport what steps are being taken to ensure that residents of the East End of London will benefit from job opportunities created by the London 2012 Olympics.

Hugh Robertson: The Olympic Delivery Authority (ODA) set a target to deliver a construction workforce of at least 15% of the residents of the five host boroughs. In June 2011 of the Olympic Park contractor workforce 24% were resident in the five host boroughs.
	The ODA and its partners have put a range of measures in place to help local people in particular access training and employment opportunities on the site. Vacancies are offered exclusively to the host borough employment brokerages and Jobcentre Plus offices in the area for a period of 48 hours. Vacancies unfilled after this time are advertised across London for a further 24 hours and after this are made available across the UK through the national Jobcentre Plus network.
	Further information can be found in the ODA's Jobs, Skills, Futures report, which was published on 20 July at the following link:
	http://www.london2012.com/publications/employment-and-skills-update-july-2011.php
	The London 2012 Organising Committee (LOCOG) is now beginning to accelerate its recruitment as it builds up to Games-time. LOCOG will have a workforce of up to 200,000 people, made up of around 6,000 FTE roles; up to 70,000 Games Maker volunteers; and 100,000 contractor positions (of which around 30,000 are expected to be ‘new’ jobs).
	LOCOG works closely with the East London host boroughs, and has set itself a target of 15% to 20% recruitment from their residents. At this early stage, 21.6% of LOCOG's workforce are residents of the six host boroughs (figure includes Barking and Dagenham). LOCOG and its contractors are now actively encouraging applications from the six host boroughs, working with the local authorities, local job brokerages, the host borough unit and Job Centre plus.
	The Olympic Park Legacy Company (OPLC) is responsible for the long term development of most of the Olympic Park after the Games. The company is keen to ensure local people can take advantage of the employment opportunities generated by the Games, use existing infrastructure within the host boroughs, including the local labour schemes and training facilities and to maximise opportunities to sustain employment for residents of the host boroughs employed during Games-time. Further information can be found in the London 2012 Olympics and Paralympic Games Quarterly Report at the following link:
	http://www.culture.gov.uk/publications/8308.aspx

Olympic Games 2012: Employment

Rushanara Ali: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport what recent estimate he has made of the number of jobs created by the London 2012 Olympics which will be taken by Tower Hamlets residents.

Hugh Robertson: I have made no such estimate. The Olympic Delivery Authority (ODA) is currently in the final stages of the 'big build1 of the venues for the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games. With the ODA's construction work on the venues drawing to a close future employment opportunities will now be focused through the London 2012 Organising Committee (LOCOG) and the Olympic Park Legacy Company (OPLC).
	In June 2011 1,196 (24%) of the ODA's Olympic Park work force and 1,529 (27%) of the Athlete's Village work force were resident in the five host boroughs, which includes Tower Hamlets. Further information can be found in the ODA's Jobs, Skills, Futures report, which was published on 20 July at the following link:
	http://www.london2012.com/publications/employment-and-skills-update-july-2011.php
	The ODA and its partners have put a range of measures in place to help local people in particular access training and employment opportunities on the site. Vacancies are offered exclusively to the host borough employment brokerages and Jobcentre Plus offices in the area for a period of 48 hours. Vacancies unfilled after this time are advertised across London for a further 24 hours and after this are made available across the UK through the national Jobcentre Plus network.
	LOCOG is now beginning to accelerate its recruitment as it builds up to Games-time. LOCOG will have a work force of up to 200,000 people, made up of around 6,000 FTE roles; up to 70,000 Games Maker volunteers; and 100,000 contractor positions (of which around 30,000 are expected to be ‘new’ jobs).
	LOCOG works closely with Tower Hamlets and the other five East London host boroughs, and has set itself a target of 15-20% recruitment from their residents. At this early stage, 21.6% of LOCOG's work force are residents of the six host boroughs (figure includes Barking and Dagenham). LOCOG and its contractors are now actively encouraging applications from the six host boroughs, working with the local authorities, local job brokerages, the host borough unit and Job Centre plus.
	The OPLC is responsible for the long term development of most of the Olympic Park after the Games. The company is keen to ensure local people can take advantage of the employment opportunities generated by the Games, use existing infrastructure within the host boroughs, including the local labour schemes and training facilities, and to maximise opportunities to sustain employment for residents of the host boroughs employed during Games-time. Further information can be found in the London 2012 Olympics and Paralympic Games Quarterly Report at the following link:
	http://www.culture.gov.uk/publications/8308.aspx

Olympic Games 2012: Facilities

Rushanara Ali: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport if he will take steps to ensure that local residents will have access to the sports facilities used as part of the London 2012 Olympics following the completion of the Games.

Hugh Robertson: The Olympic Park Legacy Company was set up by the Government and the Mayor of London to manage, develop and maintain the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park after the Games. This includes putting local communities at the heart of its planning for its Olympic venues—the Aquatics Centre, the Multi-use Arena and the Stadium. The Legacy Company is in the process of appointing operators for these venues and aims to have them in place before Games-time. While these operators will be expected to manage the venues, the Legacy Company will be very much involved in overseeing their management and in ensuring that local residents have full access at prices comparable with facilities in the area.
	The Lee Valley Regional Park Authority is committed to ensuring that facilities at the VeloPark and Hockey/Tennis Centre on the Eton Manor site are fully accessible to all members of the community. They are working in partnership with the national governing bodies for cycling, tennis and hockey to ensure a balanced approach to sports delivery at all their venues and will develop extensive sports development plans/programmes aimed at engaging with all members of the community from grass roots activity through to elite performance programmes.
	The authority will actively work with local community groups and other partners to ensure Local people benefit from these facilities and will also encourage wider usage across the region. They are currently doing some extensive work with the six host boroughs to ensure local communities benefit from the Olympics and that sports development plans reflect needs locally.
	The authority has already opened the Lee Valley White Water Centre in Broxbourne to the community, the only newly built facility to be open before the Olympics. Visitor tracking for the first six months of operation indicates that the centre has received residents from every single London borough and has the highest percentage of users from the local boroughs of Broxbourne, Epping and Enfield.

Olympic Games 2012: Hertfordshire

Anne Main: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport with reference to the Answer of 21 July 2005, Official Report, column 2077W, who will lead the East of England Olympic Working Group following the closure of the East England Development Agency in March 2011.

Hugh Robertson: The East of England London 2012 Board (Nations and Regions East) will lead the East of England Olympic Working Group. The Board presently includes the following representation: East of England Development Agency, East of England Local Government Association (EELGA), Sport England, Department of Health, Arts Council England East, Lee Valley Regional Park Authority, East of England Business Group, East of England Tourism and Representatives from each of the six county area working groups, which includes the Chairman of the Hertfordshire is Ready for Winners Group. The group is chaired by Councillor Stephen Castle, Nations and Regions Group Member. The Government is funding the continuation of regional coordination services and support for the operation of the Nations and Regions East Group. The Department for Culture, Media and Sport has an agreement with EELGA for the latter to provide these services in 2011-12 and from 1 April to 30 September 2012.

Olympic Games 2012: Hertfordshire

Anne Main: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport with reference to the Answer of 21 July 2005, Official Report, column 2077W, if he will highlight the city of St Albans in promotional literature for visitors to the London 2012 Olympics.

John Penrose: The Department for Culture, Media and Sport has established a new £100 million overseas tourism marketing fund which is a joint public-private sector initiative. The marketing programme, which is being led by VisitBritain, will capitalise on the international interest in the recent royal wedding, as well as next year's diamond jubilee and the Olympic games and Paralympic games, and showcase Britain to the world. The programme is aiming to attract 4 million additional visitors and £2 billion extra spend in the UK economy over the next four years, which will support businesses, jobs and growth. VisitBritain will be promoting the full range of destinations in Britain across a number of platforms including heritage cities as a generic tourism product. The destination will also feature in their Places to Visit, gazetteer which can be found at:
	http://www.enjoyengland.com/
	VisitEngland have already highlighted the cathedral of St Albans in their cultural pages and this coincided with the local Organ festival being held at the time. Beyond that, destination-specific marketing, for St Albans or anywhere else, is best handled by the local Destination Management Organisation in each area.

Olympic Games 2012: Housing

Rushanara Ali: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport what progress his Department has made on the development of affordable homes in the Olympic Village and when a lettings policy will be published.

Hugh Robertson: The forecasted Village construction end date for the Games is early 2012. The 2,818 homes will be temporarily fitted out for the use of Olympic and Paralympic Athletes during the Games. 1,379 affordable homes in the Village have been pre-sold to Triathlon Homes, an approved provider of affordable homes, who will also manage the homes. From summer 2013/spring 2014 the final high quality homes will be delivered to Triathlon ready for residents to move into. Triathlon has been working with the host boroughs and the Greater London Authority on the lettings strategy for the social rented homes on the site. This is currently being approved by all parties and will be published later in 2011.

Olympic Games 2012: Tickets

John Mann: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport what estimate he has made of the number of unsuccessful applicants for the first round of allocations for tickets to the London 2012 Olympics who were not informed of the outcome of the ticket ballot before 24 June 2011.

Hugh Robertson: I have not made any such estimation. The London Organising Committee of the Olympic Games and Paralympic Games Limited (LOCOG), is a private company independent of Government, responsible for the tickets for the London 2012 games.
	LOCOG has stated that in the first window of Olympic ticket sales from 15 March until 26 April, 1.9 million people put in applications for 22 million tickets. 700,000 were successful and notifications were sent to all applicants, successful and unsuccessful, by 24 June. LOCOG has communicated regularly with all these applicants, so they would be aware of the process.

Phone Hacking Inquiry

Ivan Lewis: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport if he will consult the official Opposition on the composition of the panel of media experts to be appointed to assist Lord Justice Leveson's inquiry into wrongdoing by the press and police.

Jeremy Hunt: The Prime Minister announced the membership of the panel of media experts to be appointed to assist Lord Justice Leveson's inquiry into wrongdoing by the press and police, on 20 July 2011, Official Report, columns 918-21.
	Names were passed to the opposition ahead of the announcement and it was good to see the leader of the opposition welcome them in his response.

Press Complaints Commission

Ivan Lewis: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport what the date was of each meeting he has had with the Press Complaints Commission since his appointment.

Jeremy Hunt: I have not met with the Press Complaints Commission (PCC) since my appointment.
	However, the Under-Secretary of State for Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport, the hon. Member for Wantage (Mr Vaizey), met with the PCC on 29 September 2010.

Prime Minister

Ivan Lewis: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport what the date was of each meeting he has had at which officials or advisers of the Prime Minister were present since December 2010.

Jeremy Hunt: I attend regular meetings where officials or advisers of the Prime Minister may be present. However, details of exactly when, are not held centrally.
	As has been the practice of previous Administrations, a list of meetings with external organisations is published on the Department for Culture, Media and Sport website and can be found using the following link:
	http://www.transparency.culture.gov.uk/category/other/meetings/
	I did not discuss my decisions on the BSkyB merger with the Prime Minister ahead of their announcement.

Rugby: World Cup

Ivan Lewis: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport what progress his Department has made in its support for the hosting by England of the 2013 Rugby League World Cup.

Jeremy Hunt: I am working closely with the Rugby Football League, organisers of the 2013 Rugby League World Cup, as well as the Rugby Football Union, organisers of the 2015 Rugby Union World Cup, to deliver the coalition agreement commitment to ensure that the tournaments are successful.

Sports: Finance

Barry Gardiner: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport what the conditions were of funding through Sport England to national governing bodies; and what increase in participation his Department's Active People Scheme has recorded in each sport so funded.

Hugh Robertson: Sport England invests in 46 national governing bodies of sport to help deliver their strategy of increasing participation in sport. Each sport has developed a whole sport plan that explains how it will use this money to achieve their outcomes. A summary of the plans, and the investment made, is available on the Sport England website at the following link:
	http://www.sportengland.org/funding/ngb_investment/ngb_whole_sport_plans.aspx
	During the period April 2010 to April 2011, 6.924 million adults participated in sport three times a week for 30 minutes at moderate intensity. This is 108,600 more adult participants than the 2007-08 baseline (Active People Survey 2). The current, and previous, Active People Survey results can be found on the Sport England website at the following link:
	http://www.sportengland.org/research/active_people_survey/active_people_survey_5/aps5_quarter_two.aspx

Treasure Trove: Coroners

Andrew Smith: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport what the timetable is for establishing a Coroner for Treasure as provided for in the Coroners and Justice Act 2009; and if he will make a statement.

Edward Vaizey: This Department, supported by the Ministry of Justice, is continuing to consider the feasibility of establishing a Coroner for Treasure. We will let interested parties know once we have reached a conclusion.

Treasure Trove: Oxfordshire

Andrew Smith: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport what the average length of time was for the completion of inquests into Treasure cases from Oxfordshire in (a) 2008, (b) 2009 and (c) 2010; and if he will make a statement.

Edward Vaizey: The average time taken for the completion of inquests into Treasure cases in Oxfordshire, based on the time between the date the British Museum wrote requesting that the inquest was held and the receipt of the verdict papers by the British Museum, is as follows:
	(a) 408 days for cases where the British Museum .requested an inquest in 2008
	(b) 274 days for cases where the British Museum requested an inquest in 2009
	(c) No inquests have been completed for cases where the British Museum requested an inquest in 2010.
	The figures shown exclude two cases from 2009 and one case from 2010 where the British Museum wrote to request an inquest but the verdict papers have not yet been received.

CULTURE MEDIA AND SPORT

Gambling

Ivan Lewis: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport pursuant to the written ministerial statement of 18 July 2011, Official Report, column 62WS, on remote gambling, and with reference to his Department's Business Plan for 2011-15, if he will implement the recommendations of his Department's investigation into the use of funds in dormant betting accounts to establish a capital fund to improve local sports facilities and support sports clubs.

Jeremy Hunt: The written ministerial statement of 18 July 2011, Official Report, column 62WS, on remote gambling made clear that the Government's proposal to licence overseas based remote gambling is primarily about public protection. However, there is relevance to my Department's review of the possible use of funds lying in dormant betting accounts and unclaimed winnings, and we will consider the report by my right hon. Friend the Member for Bath (Mr Foster) on that subject in light of the decision on remote gambling. My Department will announce the decision on next steps, shortly.

Museums and Galleries

Ivan Lewis: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport pursuant to the answer of 5 July 2011, Official Report, column 1108W, on museum and galleries: charitable trusts, if he will publish the framework for the creation of charitable trusts agreed at his meeting with national museum directors at the end of May 2011.

Jeremy Hunt: A framework was verbally agreed, and is necessarily individual to each body, given their range of circumstances and commercial sensitivities. There are no plans to publish a document. The timetable for individual bodies will vary, but the framework agrees that charitable trusts will be set up and operational by the end of the financial year.

Olympic Games 2012

Dan Jarvis: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport what support in each category of assistance his Department has requested from the Ministry of Defence to assist with the London 2012 Olympics.

Hugh Robertson: The Department is currently in discussion with the Ministry of Defence regarding the possible participation of service personnel in ceremonies in support of the Olympic and Paralympic Games.
	The Department has agreed with the Ministry of Defence oh the use of The Royal Artillery Barracks and Horse Guards as venues for the Olympics and Paralympics.

Olympic Games 2012

Ian Austin: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport 
	(1)  what discussions he has had with London Organising Committee of the Olympic Games on arrangements for spectators at London 2012 Olympic cycling road races in (a) Box Hill and (b) other areas;
	(2)  what representations he has received on arrangements for spectators at London 2012 Olympic cycling road races in (a) Box Hill and (b) other areas;
	(3)  what assessment he has made of the adequacy of arrangements for spectators at London 2012 Olympic cycling road races at (a) Box Hill and (b) other areas; and if he will make a statement.

Hugh Robertson: The London Organising Committee of the Olympic and Paralympic Games (LOCOG) is responsible for staging the Olympic Cycling Road Races next year. The majority of the route will not require ticketing and LOCOG is working with partners to ensure that the events are a success for athletes and spectators, including ensuring provision for as many spectators as possible to view the race at Box Hill and throughout the route. Spectator arrangements must balance the ambition to provide viewing opportunities for as many people as possible with the obligation to ensure the safety of both spectators and the general public. LOCOG and Surrey county council are working with Transport for London, who are responsible for arrangements for the safe movement of spectators and the general public across the entire route. Box Hill carries two legally binding conservation designations, as both a Site of Special Scientific Interest and a Special Area of Conservation. LOCOG are working in partnership with Natural England and the National Trust to ensure spectators are able to enjoy the race, while safeguarding the areas of specialist habitat. Officials from this Department work closely with these organisations and other local partners.
	A London 2012 test event of the road race route, the London-Surrey Cycle Classic, took place in August 2011 and will inform planning for the London 2012 Olympic events.

Olympic Games 2012

Greg Knight: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport which goods and services will be provided free of charge to athletes participating in the London 2012 Olympics that are not available free of charge to members of the public; and what estimate has been made of the cost of such goods and services.

Hugh Robertson: The London 2012 Organising Committee (LOCOG) is responsible for the arrangements for athletes competing at the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games. LOCOG is a private company, independent of Government, and works closely with the National Olympic Committees and National Paralympic Committees that will send teams to the London 2012 games. A wide range of goods and services from food to accommodation are available for competitors, funded from LOCOGs budget. As part of the host city contract the Government will provide a range of services necessary for athletes travelling to the UK to participate in the games.

Olympic Games 2012: Bexley

David Evennett: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport what steps he is taking to ensure Bexley benefits from the London 2012 Olympic games.

Hugh Robertson: Bexleyheath and Crayford stand to gain from the wide range of opportunities created by the 2012 games, through businesses winning games-related work, increased tourism and cultural celebrations. Some examples of how Bexley will benefit from the games are given as follows.
	The Olympic Delivery Authority (ODA) has awarded contracts to 759 direct suppliers in London. Examples of companies based in your constituency that have supplied the ODA include Blakley Electrics, who were responsible for temporary electrics at the Olympic Stadium, and Bexley Accessible Transport Scheme, which provided equipment.
	Information on businesses in London that have directly supplied the ODA is available in the business section of the London 2012 website at the following link:
	http://www.london2012.com/get-involved/business-network/oda-suppliers/index.php
	This information does not include contracts further down the supply chain, in tiers two, three and so on, which are awarded by the tier one contractors and not by the ODA.
	So far 42,403 companies in London have registered on Competefor (the website where London 2012 contract opportunities are advertised), and 845 contracts have been awarded to Competefor suppliers in London.
	Over 19,000 schools and colleges across the UK have registered for the London 2012 Organising Committee's (LOCOG) London 2012 education programme Get Set. To date, 2,556 London schools and colleges have registered, of which 75 are in the London borough of Bexley.
	Over 1,600 cultural or sporting projects across the UK have been awarded the Inspire mark, 241 of these are in London. As part of the Olympic Torch Relay, Bexley will hold an Olympic Torch evening celebration on Sunday 22 July 2012.
	In addition, London has received £2.89 million from the Legacy Trust. One of the programmes which received funding is Big Dance, a programme which will embrace the widest possible definition of dance and the broadest spectrum of activity. It will engage London's communities and engage artists with communities across the city.

Olympic Games 2012: Leicester

Jonathan Ashworth: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport what steps he plans to take to support businesses in (a) Leicester and (b) the East Midlands to take advantage of the commercial opportunities of the 2012 London Olympics.

Hugh Robertson: The Nations and Regions Group, established by the Government Olympic Executive (GOE) and London 2012 Organising Committee (LOCOG), includes representation from each of the UK nations and regions and works directly with them to help realise and maximise the benefits from the economic, sporting and cultural opportunities offered by the games.
	The economic benefits of the games continue to flow to businesses across the East Midlands. To date the region has secured almost £340 million of Olympic Delivery Authority (ODA) Tier one contracts, the second highest value outside the greater South East. Over the past six months, contracts have been let to supply a diverse range of goods and services to London 2012 across each level of the LOCOG and ODA supply chains. Examples include; archery targets from Target Tech (Hugglescote, Leicestershire) and plaster and plasterboard from British Gypsum (Loughborough, Leicestershire).
	The ODA is responsible for developing and building the venues and infrastructure for the London 2012 games. Over 1,500 businesses, including those directly involved in the construction programme, have supplied the ODA from across the UK, 44 of which are from the East Midlands. One of those businesses is Leicester-based Industrial Fire Protection which specialises in the design, supply and installation of passive fire protection. It secured a contract to design supply and fit soffit insulation to the undersides of the concrete floors in the main Olympic stadium.
	Pre-Games Training Camps (PGTCs) provide an opportunity to create further economic benefits, including inward investment, through the international attention that will follow. Two agreements are now in place in the East Midlands for teams to use facilities in the region. The agreement between the Japanese Olympic Committee and Loughborough University has already brought both cultural and economic benefits.
	The games will also provide a focus for the tourism industry. The Government's Tourism Policy, published in March, aims to help the tourism industry achieve its potential for growth through a range of measures. This initiative aims to generate 4 million extra overseas visitors over the next four years bringing in an extra £2 billion worth of visitor spend and helping to create 50,000 new jobs across the country.

S4C

Alun Cairns: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport 
	(1)  whether targets are in place to ensure S4C reduces its central administration budget;
	(2)  what recent progress S4C has made in reducing its central administration budget.

Edward Vaizey: The Secretary of State for Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport set out the funding for S4C over the spending review period in his letter to the Chair of the S4C Authority of 20 October 2010:
	http://www.culture.gov.uk/images/publications/Jones_S4C.pdf
	The allocation of its funding in pursuit of its objectives is a matter for S4C and the Secretary of State has not set any targets for S4C to reduce its central administration budget.

S4C

Alun Cairns: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport if he will take steps to protect the programme budget of S4C; and if he will make a statement.

Edward Vaizey: The Secretary of State set out the funding for S4C over the spending review period in his letter to the Chair of the S4C Authority of 20 October 2010:
	http://www.culture.gov.uk/images/publications/Jones_S4C.pdf
	The allocation of its funding in pursuit of its objectives is a matter for S4C but the Secretary of State believes this is the best funding model for ensuring a sustainable future for Welsh language programming.

NORTHERN IRELAND

Departmental Work Experience

Bridget Phillipson: To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland how many (a) persons undertaking unpaid work experience, (b) unpaid interns and (c) other persons in unpaid positions were working in his Department as of 1 July 2011.

Owen Paterson: As of 1 July 2011, no persons were undertaking any form of unpaid work in my Department.

Pat Finucane

Shaun Woodward: To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland when he intends to make an announcement on the outcome of his consideration on whether to establish an inquiry into the death of Pat Finucane; and if he will make a statement.

Owen Paterson: Soon.

Victim Support Schemes

Margaret Ritchie: To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what steps he is taking together with the Irish Government to support the needs of victims; and if he will make a statement.

Owen Paterson: As I stated in my answer to the hon. Lady of 5 July 2011, Official Report, column 1097W, responsibility for providing practical services and support to victims rests with the devolved Administration.
	However, I am committed to considering what contribution the UK Government can make to dealing with the legacy of the Troubles. I have had several discussions with the Irish Foreign Minister on this issue and intend to continue to engage with the Irish Government on the way forward.

CABINET OFFICE

British National (overseas)

Stephen Gilbert: To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Office how many British nationals were living in each other EU member state in each of the last 10 years for (a) all and (b) part of that year; and if he will make a statement.

Nick Hurd: The information requested falls within the responsibility of the UK Statistics Authority. I have asked the authority to reply.
	Letter from Stephen Penneck, dated July 2011
	.
	The Office for National Statistics (ONS) does not collect information regarding UK nationals resident outside the UK. However, Eurostat publishes figures on population by citizenship for EU countries, these are available at:
	http://epp.eurostat.ec.europa.eu/portal/page/portal/population/data/database

Civil Service: Manpower

Lisa Nandy: To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Office how many special adviser posts have been advertised since May 2010.

Francis Maude: In accordance with the provisions of the Constitutional Reform and Governance Act 2010, special adviser appointments are exempt from the requirement that appointments to the civil service must be on merit on the basis of fair and open competition. Therefore, no special adviser posts have been advertised.

Departmental Carbon Emissions

Huw Irranca-Davies: To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Office pursuant to the answer of 13 July 2011, Official Report, column 357W, on carbon emissions, if he will assess the feasibility of low-carbon energy generation on the Downing Street estate.

Francis Maude: In November 2008, under the previous Administration, an energy use options study was carried out in consultation with the Carbon Trust.
	The report stated that:
	“there appears to be little benefit in initiating a local CHP (combined heat and power) facility at Downing street as the existing Whitehall District Heating System (WDHS) already fulfils that role”.
	In line with the report's recommendation, this position remains unchanged and there are no plans to disconnect Downing street from The WDHS.
	The study also considered other options for renewable energy generation such as wind turbines and photovoltaic panels. However, these proved to be either economically unviable or precluded by the Grade 1 listing status of 10 Downing street.
	Downing street continues to seek improvements in its sustainability under a programme of building improvement and, over the last year, has reduced carbon emissions by 10.8%.

Departmental Procurement

Julian Smith: To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Office how many procurement contracts his Department has awarded to small businesses since May 2010.

Francis Maude: Comprehensive information is not currently available on the number of contracts awarded to small businesses and cannot be obtained without exceeding the disproportionate cost threshold of £800.
	Since January 2011, all new contracts over the value of £10,000 are required to be published on Contracts Finder. Up to 15 July the Cabinet Office has awarded and published on Contracts Finder eight contracts over the value of £10,000 to Small and Medium size Enterprises (SMEs).

Departmental Telephone Services

Nia Griffith: To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Office how much funding he has allocated to each telephone helpline operated by his Department in 2011-12; and what the purpose is of each such helpline.

Francis Maude: The Cabinet Office is responsible for the operation of the following telephone helplines:
	The Efficiency and Reform Group (ERG) within the Cabinet Office includes the ERG Service Desk, which answers telephone queries, among other services that it provides. However, it is not possible to isolate the budget allocated to answering telephone inquiries from the Service Desk's overall funding.
	MyCSP, the administrator for the civil service pension arrangements, operates helplines for scheme members and employers. Capita also operate a helpline for payroll queries on behalf of MyCSP. This activity is not costed separately, either locally or centrally.

Green Investment Bank

Zac Goldsmith: To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Office whether the Green Investment Bank will be classified by the Office of National Statistics as a public corporation for the purposes of the National Accounts.

Nick Hurd: The information requested falls within the responsibility of the UK Statistics Authority. I have asked the authority to reply.
	Letter from Stephen Penneck
	As the Director General of ONS, I have been asked to reply to your Parliamentary Question asking whether the Green Investment Bank will be classified by the Office of National Statistics as a public corporation for the purposes of the National Accounts (68104).
	The Office for National Statistics (ONS) has not been asked for a classification decision with regard to the proposed Green Investment Bank (GIB). ONS will apply the international guidelines contained in the European System of Accounts 1995 (ESA 95) to determine the appropriate classification—this may or may not result in the classification of the GIB as a public financial corporation.
	We understand the GIB is currently still in the planning stage, consequently ONS is unlikely to reach a classification decision on the GIB until details are finalised.
	A summary of the UK National Accounts sector and transaction classification process is published on the ONS website at:
	http://www.ons.gov.uk/ons/guide-method/method-quality/specific/economy/na-classifications/the-uk-classification-process.pdf

Prostate Cancer: Ethnic Groups

David Lammy: To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Office what the (a) age-standardised incidence rate for prostate cancer was and (b) number of diagnoses of prostate cancer there were amongst (i) Black African, (ii) Black Caribbean, (iii) Black other, (iv) mixed White and Black African and (v) mixed White and Black Caribbean men in England in each year between 1997-98 and 2009-10.

Nick Hurd: The information requested falls within the responsibility of the UK Statistics Authority. I have asked the authority to reply.
	Letter from Stephen Penneck, dated August 2011
	As Director General for the Office for National Statistics, I have been asked to reply to your recent question asking what the (a) age-standardised incidence rate for prostate cancer was and (b) number of diagnoses of prostate cancer there were amongst (i) Black African, (ii) Black Caribbean, (iii) Black other, (iv) mixed White and Black African and (v) mixed White and Black Caribbean men in England in each year between 1997-98 and 2009-10.
	The latest available figures for newly diagnosed cases of prostate cancer (incidence) are for the year 2009.
	The tables attached provide the (a) age standardised incidence rate per 100,000 population (Table 1) and (b) the number of diagnoses (incidence) (Table 2) of prostate cancer in England for the years 1997 to 2009.
	Figures are provided for calendar years (January to December) to be consistent with routine cancer registration outputs.
	It is not possible to provide figures for (i) Black African, (ii) Black Caribbean, (iii) Black other, (iv) mixed White and Black African and (v) mixed White and Black Caribbean men as ethnicity is not consistently recorded for individual cancer registrations.
	The latest published figures on the incidence of prostate cancer in England are available on the National Statistics website:
	http://www.ons.gov.uk/ons/taxonomy/index.html?nscl=Health+and+Social+Care
	
		
			 Table 1: Age-standardised incidence rates per 100,000 population, prostate cancer, males, England, 1997-200  9  (1, 2, 3, 4) 
			  Rate per 100,000 
			 1997 71 
			 1998 72 
			 1999 78 
			 2000 85 
			 2001 96 
			 2002 96 
			 2003 96 
			 2004 103 
			 2005 99 
			 2006 103 
			 2007 100 
			 2008 98 
			 2009 108 
			 (1) Age-standardised incidence rates per 100,000 population, standardised to the European Standard Population. Age-standardised rates are used to allow comparison between populations which may contain different proportions of people of different ages. (2) Prostate cancer is coded as C61 in the International Classification of Diseases, Tenth Revision (ICD-10). (3) Based on newly diagnosed cases registered in each calendar year. (4) Figures for England exclude cancer registrations for non-residents. 
		
	
	
		
			 Table 2: Registrations of newly   diagnosed cases of prostate cancer, males, England, 1997-2009  (1, 2, 3) 
			 Number 
			 1997 20,006 
			 1998 20,480 
			 1999 22,387 
			 2000 24,593 
			 2001 28,015 
			 2002 28,246 
			 2003 28,503 
			 2004 30,975 
			 2005 30,053 
			 2006 31,476 
			 2007 31,236 
			 2008 30,893 
		
	
	
		
			 2009 34,593 
			 (1 )Prostate cancer is coded as C61 in the International Classification of Diseases, Tenth Revision (ICD-10). (2) Based on newly diagnosed cases registered in each calendar year. (3) Figures for England exclude cancer registrations for non-residents.

Prostate Cancer: Ethnic Groups

David Lammy: To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Office what the age-standardised mortality rate from prostate cancer was amongst (a) Black African, (b) Black Caribbean, (c) Black other, (d) mixed White and Black African and (e) mixed White and Black Caribbean men in England in each year between 1997-98 and 2009-10.

Nick Hurd: The information requested falls within the responsibility of the UK Statistics Authority. I have asked the authority to reply.
	Letter from Stephen Penneck, dated August 2011
	As Director General for the Office for National Statistics, I have been asked to reply to your recent question asking what the age-standardised mortality rate from prostate cancer was amongst (a) Black African, (b) Black Caribbean, (c) Black other, (d) mixed White and Black African and (e) mixed White and Black Caribbean men in England in each year between 1997-98 and 2009-10. (69414)
	Table 1 attached provides the age-standardised mortality rates per 100,000, where prostate cancer was the underlying cause of death, in England, for the years 1997 to 2010 (the latest year available).
	Figures are provided for calendar years (January to December) to be consistent with routine mortality outputs.
	It is not possible to provide figures for (a) Black African, (b) Black Caribbean, (c) Black other, (d) mixed White and Black African and (e) mixed White and Black Caribbean men as ethnicity is not recorded at death registration.
	
		
			 Table 1: Age-standardised mortality rates per 100,000 males, where prostate cancer was the underlying cause of death, England, 1997-2010  (1, 2, 3, 4) 
			  Rate per 100,000 
			 1997 28 
			 1998 28 
			 1999 27 
			 2000 26 
			 2001 27 
			 2002 27 
			 2003 27 
			 2004 26 
			 2005 26 
			 2006 25 
			 2007 25 
			 2008 24 
			 2009 24 
			 2010 24 
			 (1) Age-standardised mortality rates per 100,000 population, standardised to the European Standard Population. Age-standardised rates are used to allow comparison between populations which may contain different proportions of people of different ages. (2) Cause of death for prostate cancer was defined using the International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision (ICD-9) code 185 for the years 1997 to 2000, and Tenth Revision (ICD-10) code C61 from 2001 onwards. The introduction of ICD-10 in 2001 means that the numbers of deaths from this cause before 2001 are not completely comparable with later years. (3) Figures for England exclude deaths of non-residents. (4) Figures are for deaths registered in each calendar year.

UK National Accounts: Natural Capital

Zac Goldsmith: To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Office what timetable he has set for the inclusion of natural capital within the UK National Accounts.

Nick Hurd: The information requested falls within the responsibility of the UK Statistics Authority. I have asked the authority to reply.
	Letter from Stephen Penneck, dated August 2011
	As Director General for the Office for National Statistics, I have been asked to reply to your Parliamentary Question asking what timetable has been set for the inclusion of natural capital within the UK National Accounts. (69449).
	The timetable is set out in the Natural Environment White Paper (NEWP)(1) which was published by the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs on 7 June 2011 with the following commitments:
	‘The new measures of national wellbeing which are in development will reflect our dependency on the natural environment for the quality of our lives.’
	‘We will put natural capital at the heart of Government accounting. We will work with the Office for National Statistics to fully include natural capital in the UK Environmental Accounts, with early changes by 2013. In 2012 we will publish a roadmap for further improvements up to 2020.’
	The Office for National Statistics is leading on the delivery of these measurement commitments through our Measuring National Wellbeing(2) programme. The 2012 roadmap will detail the timetable for inclusion of natural capital within the UK Environmental Accounts, a satellite account to the UK National Accounts. ONS will be seeking to engage with a broad range of experts and potential users in the development of the roadmap. The exact date for its publication in 2012 has not yet been agreed but the publication date will be pre-announced in line with the National Statistics Code of Practice.
	(1) http://www.defra.gov.uk/environment/natural/whitepaper/
	(2) http://www.ons.gov.uk/ons/guide-method/well-being/index.html

SCOTLAND

Air Force: Military Bases

Graeme Morrice: To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland what recent discussions he has had with the Secretary of State for Defence on the future of Royal Air Force bases in Scotland.

David Mundell: Prior to the announcement of the Basing Review conclusions, the Secretary of State had regular discussions with Cabinet colleagues, including the Secretary of State for Defence, on the future of the Royal Air Force bases in Scotland and other relevant matters.

Banks

Graeme Morrice: To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland when he last met representatives of major Scottish banks.

David Mundell: The Secretary of State meets regularly with representatives of major Scottish banks. He last met with representatives of the sector shortly before the House rose for the summer recess, and has further relevant engagements planned this week.

Banks: Pay

Graeme Morrice: To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland what recent discussion he has had with the Chancellor of the Exchequer on bonuses awarded by Scottish banks.

David Mundell: The Secretary of State for Scotland, my right hon. Friend the Member for Berwickshire, Roxburgh and Selkirk (Michael Moore), and I meet regularly with the Chancellor of the Exchequer to discuss a wide range of issues, including matters relevant to the banking sector in Scotland.

Child Benefit

Graeme Morrice: To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland what assessment he has made of the potential impact on families in Scotland of reductions in child benefit.

David Mundell: I refer the hon. Member to the answer given by the Exchequer Secretary to the Treasury, my hon. Friend the Member for South West Hertfordshire (Mr Gauke) on 15 November 2010, Official Report, column 614W.

Children: Poverty

Graeme Morrice: To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland what recent assessment he has made of the level of child poverty in Scotland.

David Mundell: The most recent National Statistics publication on poverty and income inequality in Scotland shows that between 2008-09 and 2009-10 child poverty rates in three of the four statutory poverty indicators have decreased. Earlier this year both the UK and Scottish Governments published their respective Child Poverty Strategies, as required by the Child Poverty Act. The UK Government will continue to work closely with the devolved Administrations to reduce child poverty across all parts of the United Kingdom.

Conditions of Employment

Graeme Morrice: To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland what discussions he has had with trade unions in Scotland on proposals to alter employment law relating to redundancy and employment tribunals.

David Mundell: Scotland Office Ministers are in regular contact with trade unions in Scotland on a range of issues.

Conditions of Employment

Graeme Morrice: To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland what assessment he has made of the potential effect in Scotland of proposals to alter employment law relating to redundancy and employment tribunals.

David Mundell: Scotland Office ministers are committed to creating the right conditions for economic prosperity in Scotland, including the need to remove barriers to growth and job creation. UK Government officials have discussed the proposed Employment Tribunal changes with the Presidents of Employment Tribunals in England & Wales and Scotland.

Departmental Air Travel

John Mann: To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland on what occasions he has flown on official business (a) by budget airline and (b) in economy class in the last 12 months.

David Mundell: All air travel is undertaken by the most efficient and cost effective way, in accordance with the Ministerial Code, a copy of which is available in the Library of the House. In the last 12 months, the Secretary of State for Scotland has travelled in economy class on each occasion he has flown on official business, and on two of these occasions he used a budget airline.

Departmental Correspondence

Austin Mitchell: To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland how many letters the Advocate-General for Scotland received from hon. Members in June 2011.

David Mundell: The Advocate-General for Scotland did not receive any correspondence from hon. Members of Parliament in June 2011.

Departmental Responsibilities

Chris Ruane: To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland on how many occasions a request for a meeting by an hon. Member of each political party was refused by (a) a Minister in his Department directly and (b) his Department on behalf of a Minister in November 2010.

David Mundell: The Secretary of State for Scotland, my right hon. Friend the Member for Berwickshire, Roxburgh and Selkirk (Michael Moore) and I regularly meet with hon. Members from a range of political parties both formally and informally. The Scotland Office does not keep a record of declined meetings.

Disability

Graeme Morrice: To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland when he last met representatives of groups representing disabled people.

David Mundell: The Secretary of State for Scotland, my right hon. Friend the Member for Berwickshire, Roxburgh and Selkirk (Michael Moore) and I are in regular contact with a range of individuals and organisations representing disabled people.

Energy Supply

Graeme Morrice: To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland 
	(1)  when he last met with representatives of the six main energy providers in Scotland;
	(2)  what discussions he has had on recent electricity and gas price increases by energy suppliers in Scotland; and if he will make a statement.

David Mundell: The Secretary of State for Scotland, my right hon. Friend the Member for Berwickshire, Roxburgh and Selkirk (Michael Moore) is in regular contact with the Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change, my right hon. Friend the Member for Eastleigh (Chris Huhne), and with representatives from the main energy suppliers in Scotland on a range of issues including the recent electricity and gas price increases.

Fuel Poverty

Graeme Morrice: To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland when he last met representatives of fuel poverty campaigners in Scotland.

David Mundell: The Secretary of State for Scotland, my right hon. Friend the Member for Berwickshire, Roxburgh and Selkirk (Michael Moore) and I are in regular contact with a range of individuals and organisations on energy issues, including those relevant to fuel poverty.

Green Investment Bank

Graeme Morrice: To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland what recent discussions he has had with the Secretary of State for Business, Innovation and Skills on the creation of the Green Investment Bank.

David Mundell: The Secretary of State for Scotland, my right hon. Friend the Member for Berwickshire, Roxburgh and Selkirk (Michael Moore), has met on a number of occasions with the Secretary of State for Business, Innovation and Skills, my right hon. Friend the Member for Twickenham (Vince Cable), and other interested Ministers to discuss the creation of the Green Investment Bank. In all relevant discussions, he has discussed Edinburgh's case to host the Bank.

Housing Benefit

Graeme Morrice: To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland what assessment he has made of the impact in Scotland of changes to housing benefit.

David Mundell: The Scottish Government has published its own impact assessment of how changes to housing benefit announced by the Chancellor of the Exchequer in the June 2010 Budget and October 2010 Comprehensive Spending Review may impact on those households in Scotland which currently rely on housing benefit to pay their rent. It builds on data previously provided by the Department for Work and Pensions and is available online from:
	http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Topics/Built-Environment/Housing/supply-demand/chma/marketcontextmaterials/hbchangesscottishimpact/

Human Trafficking: Children

Graeme Morrice: To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland when he last met campaigners against the trafficking of children in Scotland.

David Mundell: I am in regular contact with Home Office Ministers to ensure that HM Government work closely with their partners in Scotland to implement the UK strategy to combat all trafficking crimes, including the trafficking of children.

Insolvency

Graeme Morrice: To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland what steps he is taking to reduce the number of business insolvencies in Scotland.

David Mundell: The Government's aim is to achieve strong, sustainable and balanced economic growth, driven by investment and exports. In Scotland, we are committed to working with the Scottish Government to support businesses.

Shipbuilding

Graeme Morrice: To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland 
	(1)  what discussions he has had with the Secretary of State for Defence on his remarks to the Scottish Affairs Committee on the future of shipbuilding in Scotland were it to separate from the Union; and if he will make a statement;
	(2)  what recent assessment he has made of the state of the shipbuilding industry in Scotland; and if he will make a statement.

David Mundell: Both the Secretary of State and I recognise the significant contribution shipbuilding makes to the Scottish economy.
	Ministry of Defence contracts are critical to the future of Scotland's shipbuilding industry. That is why I welcome the decision, following the Strategic Defence and Security Review last year, to press ahead with building the Queen Elizabeth Carriers and to develop the new Type 26 Global Combat Ship which is intended to follow the Queen Elizabeth Class build programme.
	The Secretary of State and I have had discussions with Defence Ministers on a range of issues. This Government firmly believe that Scotland benefits from being part of the United Kingdom and that the United Kingdom benefits from having Scotland within it and will continue to make that case.

Unemployment

Graeme Morrice: To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland what recent assessment he has made of levels of unemployment in Scotland; and what steps is he taking to reduce long-term unemployment in Scotland.

David Mundell: The Secretary of State for Scotland, my right hon. Friend the Member for Berwickshire, Roxburgh and Selkirk (Michael Moore) and I pay close attention to levels of unemployment in Scotland. For example, we are hosting a series of seminars across Scotland to examine the particular challenge of youth unemployment.
	The Government have introduced a range of measures to reduce long-term unemployment. These include creating the wider conditions for balanced, sustainable growth, and ensuring that work pays and that people on benefits who can work are given support to prepare and search for work. The Work Programme in particular is aimed at reducing long-term unemployment.

TRANSPORT

A1: Road Signs and Markings

Greg Knight: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport for what reason the temporary message signs alongside the southbound carriageway of the A1M were not activated on 11 June 2011 notifying motorists of the long delays occurring southbound north of the junction between the A1 and the M25; and if he will make a statement.

Michael Penning: The temporary message signs from Junction 6 to Junction 3 of the A1M were installed to provide information to drivers during the Hatfield Tunnel refurbishment works. This work is complete and the signs have been left in place to provide additional information in particular to drivers entering the widening works on the M25.
	On 11 June 2011 between 6 am and 2 pm the East Regional Control Centre (ERCC) did not log any congestion, incident led or otherwise, within 10 km of Junction 2 of the A1M and therefore were not required to set these signs.
	Unreported congestion may have caused these delays. On other sections of Motorway this would have been registered by the Motorway Detection and Automatic Signalling (MIDAS) system and Variable Message Signs (VMS) in the proximity of the congestion would have been activated to warn drivers. This system is not available for the temporary message signs Junction 6 to Junction 3.

A1: Road Signs and Markings

Greg Knight: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport for what reason a number of the mobile message boards on the southbound carriageway of the A1(M) are not currently being activated to warn drivers of possible delays.

Michael Penning: The temporary message signs from Junction 6 to Junction 3 on the A1(M) were installed to provide information to drivers during the Hatfield Tunnel refurbishment works. This work is now complete and the signs have been left in place to provide additional information, in particular to drivers entering the widening works on the M25. The system is still active but is not connected to the Highways Agency's Control Office Based System which controls the standard Variable Message Signs.
	The temporary signs are controlled by a stand-alone personal computer located in the East Region Control Centre (ERCC) and are operated manually by ERCC staff. As the system is stand alone the Motorway Detection and Automatic Signalling system which detects and signs for congestion is not available for the temporary message signs from Junction 6 to Junction 3.

Airlines: Competition

Malcolm Bruce: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport if he will include a passengers rights framework within the Economic Regulation of Airports Bill for the purposes of protecting consumers at airports from anti-competitive airline practices; and if he will make a statement.

Theresa Villiers: The proposed reforms to the framework for airport economic regulation would give the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) a primary duty to promote the interests of existing and future passengers. Under the new regime airports with substantial market power and for whom regulation adds real value would need a licence and CAA would have powers to impose conditions on these airports to promote passengers' interests.
	The airline sector is generally very competitive. Like most other sectors in the UK economy, their prices and service quality are not regulated. Instead airlines are subject to UK and European competition law, which is enforced by the UK and European competition authorities.
	There is also a range of existing legislation which aims to protect consumers in the airline sector, including the Denied Boarding Compensation Regulations and the Passengers with Reduced Mobility Regulations.
	In addition, CAA has been consulting on the proposal to set up an aviation consumer advocate panel, which would provide independent advice to CAA on consumer issues. The Government are also consulting on a number of reforms to ensure that consumer advice, representation and enforcement, more generally, are delivered effectively and efficiently.

Airports: Railways

Zac Goldsmith: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport what steps his Department has taken to improve intermodal connectivity between airports and the rail network.

Theresa Villiers: The Government recognises the importance of good surface access transport links to airports and the crucial role the public sector must play in their delivery.
	The Government are pressing ahead with major rail improvement schemes including Crossrail, Thameslink and the tube upgrades. A consultation has also recently closed on High Speed Rail. These projects are expected to benefit passengers travelling to some of our busiest airports, including Heathrow, Gatwick, Stansted, Luton and Birmingham.

Aviation

Zac Goldsmith: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport what his policy is on the Civil Aviation Authority's proposed Future Airspace Strategy for the UK 2011 to 2030.

Theresa Villiers: The Government support the development of the Civil Aviation Authority's Future Airspace Strategy.

Aviation

Steve Brine: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport whether he has any plans to bring forward legislative proposals to vest the Civil Aviation Authority and Office of Fair Trading with powers to enforce Article 23 of EC Regulation 1008/2008.

Theresa Villiers: We intend to introduce regulations to that effect later this year. Until they are in place, the Civil Aviation Authority is able to use its enforcement powers under the Consumer Protection from Unfair Trading Regulations 2008 to ensure greater transparency in the sale of air fares.

Aviation: Working Hours

Mike Weatherley: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport whether flight time limitations for pilots were discussed at the EU Transport Council meeting of 16 June 2011; and what the outcome was of any such discussions.

Theresa Villiers: The issue of flight time limitations was not discussed at the EU Transport Council meeting of 16 June 2011.

High Speed 2 Railway Line

Julie Hilling: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport what recent discussions he has had with representatives of business on plans to extend high speed services to the North West.

Philip Hammond: I recently met with businesses and business representatives in the North West when I spoke at the High Speed Rail summit hosted by the Greater Manchester Chamber of Commerce on 25 July 2011, about the Government's proposals on High Speed 2. In addition, the Department regularly meets with business representatives in the North West and across the country, including Chambers of Commerce and Local Enterprise Partnerships, to discuss transport matters including High Speed 2.

High Speed 2 Railway Line

John Spellar: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport what recent estimate he has made of the cost to the public purse of the assessment of HS2 in (a) 2011-12 and (b) 2012-13.

Philip Hammond: The information requested is as follows:
	
		
			 Funding allocated to planning and preparation for HS2, 2014-15 
			 £ million 
			  Pre-2011-12 2011-12 2012-13 2013-14 2014-15 
			 Resource spending 21.3 116.1 163.3 89.4 204.2 
			 Capital spending 3.1 50 50 50 50

M6: Noise

Tom Watson: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport if he will ask the Highways Agency to commission a survey on the effect of road noise from Junction 9 of the M6 motorway.

Michael Penning: The Highways Agency is currently working with the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) who were tasked with identifying ‘First Priority Locations’ of areas impacted by traffic noise, which are to be investigated as a matter of priority.
	The M6 at Junction 9 has been identified as a ‘First Priority Location’ and the Highways Agency aims to complete its investigation into noise at this location by the end of 2011. This will identify any options for mitigating road traffic noise. Implementation will be subject to available funding.
	Additionally, following the recent introduction of hard shoulder running at peak times on the M6 between Junctions 8 to 10a, the Highways Agency are monitoring noise levels across the length of the scheme, including Junction 9, to compare with noise readings taken before the scheme was introduced. The results of this separate study are anticipated to be available from March 2012.

Maritime Labour Convention

Jim Fitzpatrick: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport what steps his Department is taking to implement the Maritime Labour Convention; and if he will make a statement.

Michael Penning: The UK is already largely compliant with the requirements of the Convention. Discussions are ongoing, including with the trade unions and the shipping industry, over the areas that will require amendments to current legislation to ensure full compliance. The Convention cannot be implemented piecemeal.
	In line with our policy of ensuring that all possible non-regulatory approaches have been explored and that there is a robust argument for the Government to legislate, full impact assessments are being prepared setting out the arguments for legislation and non-legislative approaches. Subject to a satisfactory conclusion, the Government will then go to public consultation.

Motor Vehicles: Testing

Tom Watson: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport how many representations his Department has received on its plans to review the frequency of MOT testing since May 2010.

Michael Penning: From May 2010 up to 16 August 2011, the Department for Transport received 311 representations on its plans to review the frequency of MOT testing. These representations consisted of 242 letters from MPs, 47 letters from the general public, six ministerial meetings, one invitation and 15 parliamentary questions.

Motorways: Ragwort

Caroline Nokes: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport how many fines the Highways Agency has received for allowing ragwort to grow on highway verges in the period since 2007.

Michael Penning: The Highways Agency has not received any fines in respect of ragwort and takes this perennial problem very seriously. Areas of particular concern are identified and efforts are targeted at infestations of the weed growing close to animal pasture. Herbicides are used as a spot treatment throughout the year when the plant is at the rosette stage and in full flower.
	The agency continues to monitor and treat known sites.

Northern Rail

Julie Hilling: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport whether his Department has retained funds from the revenue sharing arrangements made in relation to the Northern franchise; and for what purpose.

Theresa Villiers: The Department for Transport has one budget line for Support for Passenger Rail services which includes a combination of income and subsidy payments arising from its franchise agreements with each Train Operator Company, of which the Northern revenue-share arrangements is one element. The overall position in respect of TOC income/subsidy forms one part of the Department’s DEL within its SR settlement and receipts from individual TOCs are not matched against specific areas of departmental expenditure.

Railways: North West

Simon Reevell: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport how much his Department spent on rail infrastructure in (a) the North West and (b) Yorkshire and the Humber in (i) 2006-07, (ii) 2007-08, (iii) 2008-09 and (iv) 2009-10; and if he will make a statement.

Theresa Villiers: The Secretary of State for Transport is not directly responsible for expenditure on rail infrastructure. This role is fulfilled by Network Rail whom the Department fund by way of a grant.

Railways: North West

Simon Reevell: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport what his most recent assessment is of progress in the development of the Northern Hub; and if he will make a statement.

Theresa Villiers: In March 2011, the go-ahead was announced for the construction of Ordsall Chord; the first phase of the Northern Hub. Subject to achieving the necessary planning consents, this scheme will be completed by December 2016 allowing faster trains between Leeds and Manchester. Network Rail is undertaking further development work for the remaining phases and a decision will be made in July 2012 as part of the next High Level Output Specification on whether elements will be implemented during the period 2014 to 2019.

Rescue Services

Steve Rotheram: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport how much his Department spent on its consultation on the future of Liverpool, Holyhead and Belfast coastguard stations.

Michael Penning: The consultation on revised proposals to modernise Her Majesty's Coastguard is due to complete on 6 October 2011 at which point responses will be considered and final decisions taken. The consultation covers all Maritime Rescue Coordination Centres within the HM Coastguard structure and takes a national view. It is not possible to apportion costs to individual stations in Liverpool, Holyhead and Belfast.

Rescue Services

Steve Rotheram: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport for what reasons he has concluded that Belfast coastguard station should not close; and whether he was aware of these reasons prior to his Department's consultation.

Michael Penning: In response to the consultation I have considered the special circumstances that are associated with the Belfast rescue centre as set out in the original consultation, including the management of civil resilience arrangements specific to Northern Ireland, the relationship with rescue services in the Republic of Ireland, and its position as the only rescue centre within the devolved Administration.
	Consultees emphasised the need for a local presence to ensure effective routine co-operation with the Northern Ireland Executive, local authorities and emergency services, and to ensure alignment of approaches to civil resilience, civil contingencies and operational arrangements. After careful consideration of all representations, the Government decided to retain a Maritime Rescue Sub Centre (MRSC) in Belfast.

Rolling Stock: Greater Manchester

Julie Hilling: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport whether any of the rolling stock to be deployed to alleviate overcrowded peak hour rail services into Greater Manchester will be new.

Theresa Villiers: The Department is committed to the procurement of at least 36 new Electric Multiple carriages for the Manchester-Scotland route.
	The procurement of these carriages is being led by London Midland, supported by TransPennine Express.
	The Department is currently negotiating with the two train operating companies on the commercial terms for introducing such trains into service.
	Assuming that commercial agreement can be reached between all the parties, there should be an announcement later this year.

Thameslink Railway Line

Julie Hilling: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport whether the Thameslink programme is proceeding on (a) time and (b) budget.

Theresa Villiers: The Thameslink Programme is proceeding to time and within budget.

Written Questions: Government Responses

Jim Cunningham: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport when he plans to answer question 56686 tabled on 17 May 2011 for answer on 24 May 2011 relating to biofuel exports.

Norman Baker: I refer the hon. Member to the answer given on 20 July 2011, Official Report, column 1092W.

FOREIGN AND COMMONWEALTH AFFAIRS

Afghanistan: Police

Priti Patel: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs for what reason the Council of Ministers amended decision 2010/279/CFSP; what reasons were given for the increase in expenditure on EU police activity in Afghanistan; and what estimate has been made of the expenditure required after July 2012.

David Lidington: 2010/279/CFSP set out the EU Police Mission in Afghanistan's tasks and objectives for the three year period ending 31 May 2013 and provided a budget of €54.6 million for the first year. The Council of Ministers decided on 23 May 2011 that this amount would be sufficient to cover a further two months of activity until 31 July 2011.
	The amendment on 25 July 2011 (2011/473/CFSP) was to provide the budget of €60.5 million for the period 1 August 2011 to 31 July 2012. The increase in expenditure was partly due to improved staffing levels, but also due to increased security costs. The Government have provided detailed information on this new budget to Parliament in the Explanatory Memorandum provided to the European Scrutiny Committee and the House of Lords EU Select Committee. Their analysis can be found at
	http://www.publications.parliament.uk/pa/cm201012/cmselect/cmeuleg/428-xxxiv/42818.htm
	No estimates have yet been made of the budget after July 2012. We are working to ensure it represents value for money while still allowing the Mission to deliver its objectives and operate effectively in a challenging environment.

Anguilla: Public Appointments

Emma Reynolds: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what criteria were used by the Deputy Governor to Anguilla in appointing the permanent secretaries of Anguillan Government Departments.

Henry Bellingham: I refer the hon. Member to the answer given by the Minister of State, my noble Friend the right hon. Lord Howell of Guildford, to the noble Lord Jones of Cheltenham on 11 August 2011, Official Report, House  o f Lords, column WA454.

Anguilla: Public Appointments

Emma Reynolds: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what discussions the Deputy Governor to Anguilla had with the Chief Minister concerning the appointment of permanent secretaries of Anguillan Government Departments.

Henry Bellingham: Responsibility for ensuring that the Anguilla Public Service is appropriately staffed and run has been delegated by the Governor to the Deputy Governor, who is the most senior member of the Anguillan Public Service.
	While the British Government have no direct responsibility for making appointments within the Anguilla Public Service, I understand that the Deputy Governor discussed the transfer of Permanent Secretaries with the Chief Minister recently and that they have also exchanged correspondence on the matter.
	I also understand that the Deputy Governor informed the Executive Council earlier this year that consideration was being given to the movement of Permanent Secretaries within the Public Service. I am therefore fully satisfied that the Deputy Governor met the requirement placed on him under s.66 of the Anguilla Constitution to consult the Chief Minister.

Bahrain: Politics and Government

Jason McCartney: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what reports he has received on the jamming of opposition television stations in Bahrain; and what representations his Department has made to the Government of Bahrain on this matter.

Alistair Burt: The television stations in Bahrain are state owned, and we are unaware of television stations belonging to opposition groups. However, there have been reports from the main opposition group (Al-Wefaq) stating that the authorities in Bahrain have blocked an internet-based live broadcasting medium used by them.
	We continue to call on the Government of Bahrain to guarantee its citizens the universal human rights and freedoms to which they are entitled, meet all its human rights obligations and uphold political freedoms, equal access to justice and the rule of law. The Government and the security forces must respect the civil rights of peaceful protestors, the right to freedom of expression and freedom of assembly.

Bosnia and Herzegovina: Politics and Government

Karen Lumley: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what plans his Department has to strengthen relations with Bosnia Herzegovina; and what steps he plans to take to assist in (a) maintaining an international presence in support of the Dayton peace accords and (b) guaranteeing the country's territorial integrity.

David Lidington: The UK maintains a close and active bilateral relationship with Bosnia and Herzegovina (BiH). In July, the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs, my right hon. Friend the Member for Richmond (Yorks) (Mr Hague), met with BiH Foreign Minister Sven Alkalaj in London, underlined the UK's commitment to a strong and constructive bilateral relationship with BiH. In June, I visited BiH, meeting government, parliament, the Office of the High Representative (OHR) and civil society representatives. On 11 July, Baroness Warsi represented the UK Government at the commemoration of the 16(th) anniversary of the genocide in Srebrenica and had a wider programme of meetings. Our bilateral relationship with BiH ranges across a variety of issues, for example the UK has worked closely with BiH during its two years as a non-permanent member of the UN Security Council (2010-11).
	The UK is actively committed to BiH as a sovereign, stable country with functioning state-level institutions, irreversibly on path to EU and NATO. We urge progress towards the formation of a State-level government. We are fully committed to the territorial integrity of BiH and have repeatedly made clear that challenges to the structure of the state established by the Dayton Peace Agreement are unacceptable.
	The UK Government fully and strongly supports the OHR in its efforts to improve the functionality of the state and to deal promptly and decisively with challenges to the Dayton Agreement. The UK has consistently argued for strong international support for the High Representative, and to uphold the ‘5+2’ objectives and conditions necessary for the OHR's closure. We have also worked to help reinvigorate the EU's strategy towards, and presence in, BiH, while maintaining the safeguards provided by the High Representative and the EU Peacekeeping mission, EUFOR Althea. We welcome the new EU Special Representative assuming his mandate in September, as a means of strengthening EU engagement with BiH, working with the range of international actors.
	The international community can however only do so much: the onus must be on Bosnian politicians to act responsibly and in the interests of the Bosnian people. We continue to give this clear and unequivocal message in country.

Bosnia and Herzegovina: Politics and Government

Karen Lumley: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what recent assessment he has made of the political situation in Bosnia following the decision by the Republica Srpska leadership on a referendum on the competencies of the judicial institutions and certain powers bestowed on the EU High Representative.

David Lidington: The political situation in Bosnia and Herzegovina (BiH) is of serious concern. A new state-level Government have still not been formed following elections in October 2010. There has been a failure to deliver important reforms which are necessary for progress towards the EU and which would improve the functionality of the Bosnian state.
	On 13 April 2011 the RS National Assembly (RSNA) passed Conclusions calling a referendum on the authority of state-level judicial institutions, and rejecting the authority and past decisions of the High Representative in BiH. This was a serious development. The UK made clear that Conclusions represented a serious challenge to the Dayton Agreement and the rule of law in BiH and condemned the move.
	We welcomed the firm response from the international community, including the Peace Implementation Council (PIC) and EU. We also welcomed active EU engagement, including by EU High Representative Baroness Ashton which led to RS President Dodik pledging to repeal referendum legislation, in a return for a dialogue on judicial issues. This dialogue was in fact already allowed for as part of the EU accession process. We noted the annulment of the referendum decision on 1 June. We welcomed the PIC Steering Board of 29 June reiterating that the 13 April Conclusions do not discharge the requirement of the RS authorities to meet their obligations under Dayton. We urge participants in the EU dialogue to engage constructively, but recall that this is a technical dialogue aimed at accession standards, not a political forum.
	The UK's support for the Office of the High Representative in upholding the Dayton Agreement will continue to be firm and unwavering. The Government are firmly committed to BiH as a sovereign, stable country with functioning state-level institutions, irreversibly on the path to EU and NATO membership. We are engaging actively to this end and continue to urge political leaders to form quickly a broad-based and representative government, capable of undertaking reforms.

China: Human Rights

Douglas Alexander: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs on what recent occasions he has raised human rights with his Chinese counterpart; and what areas of human rights policy were raised.

William Hague: I spoke to Foreign Secretary Yang on 3 June. I urged him to agree the dates for the next round of the UK-China Human Rights Dialogue during the UK-China Summit on 27 June. At the Summit we agreed to hold the next round of the Dialogue before 23 January 2012 (Chinese New Year).
	The Minister of State, Foreign and Commonwealth Office, my hon. Friend the Member for Taunton Deane (Mr Browne) and I also raised human rights when we met Vice-Foreign Minister Fu Ying on 10 May. We discussed our concerns about individual cases, including that of Ai Weiwei.

China: Human Rights

Douglas Alexander: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what recent discussions he has had with his (a) US and (b) EU counterparts on human rights in China.

William Hague: I am in regular contact with both my US and EU counterparts on international human rights issues, including discussions on specific countries of concern, such as China. EU Foreign Ministers frequently discuss our specific concerns in EU fora.

Colombia: Human Rights

Douglas Alexander: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what human rights issues he raised in his recent meeting with the Foreign Minister of Colombia.

William Hague: I met the Colombian Foreign Minister Maria Angela Holguin on 13 July. We discussed Colombia's new Land and Victims Law and processes to ensure its proper implementation, including the need for adequate protection for all people returning to their land. I offered Her Majesty's Government's expertise and guidance in land registration and related issues to assist the implementation of the law.
	I welcomed progress made and stressed the importance of continued work in areas such as protection of human rights defenders and impurity. We will continue to work with Colombia to tackle these challenges including by supporting their international human rights conference next year.

Council of Europe: Costs

Chris Heaton-Harris: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what the cost to the UK of the common costs of the Council of Europe have been in each year since 2003; what proportion of the common costs of the Council of Europe the UK paid in each such year; and what the cost to the public purse in pounds sterling was of the UK's representation in the (a)  Committee of Ministers and (b) Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe in each such year.

David Lidington: The following table shows the totals of the Council of Europe (CoE) Ordinary Budget between 2003 and 2010, the contribution made by the UK, and the proportion of the total paid by the UK.
	The office of the UK Delegation to the CoE is responsible for, among other things, representing the UK at regular meetings of the Committee of Ministers. Its running costs by financial year are shown in the table. Figures before 2004 are not available.
	
		
			 Cost of UK Delegation to the Council of Europe 
			 Financial year £   Sterling 
			 2004-05 985,668 
			 2005-06 773,530 
			 2006-07 863,551 
			 2007-08 578,337 
			 2008-09 843,271 
			 2009-10 727,190 
			 2010-11 565,229 
		
	
	National delegations to the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe (PACE) are politically independent and do not represent national governments. PACE activities and running costs are funded from the Council of Europe’s Ordinary Budget, and Parliament pays for the expenses of the UK delegation to PACE. The following table shows the UK’s contribution to the PACE allocation from the Ordinary Budget.
	
		
			 UK contribution to PACE’s allocation from the Ordinary Budge 
			  Euros 
			 2003 1,663,966 
			 2004 1,729,629 
			 2005 1,787,644 
			 2006 1,825,013 
			 2007 1,825,891 
			 2008 1,785,771 
			 2009 1,760,947 
			 2010 1,753,434

Cyprus

Andrew Rosindell: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs how may officials of his Department are stationed in the sovereign territories of Akrotiri and Dhekelia.

David Lidington: The Sovereign Base Areas are military bases on the island of Cyprus and are administered by the Ministry of Defence. The Foreign and Commonwealth Office has no officials stationed in Akrotiri or Dhekelia.

Cyprus

Andrew Rosindell: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs whether he has any plans to commission an official standard for the sovereign territories of Akrotiri and Dhekelia.

David Lidington: I refer my hon. Friend to my response of 5 May 2011, Official Report, column 878W.

Democratic Republic of Congo: Elections

Jeremy Corbyn: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what plans he has to offer (a) assistance and (b) monitoring for the forthcoming election in Democratic Republic of Congo; and if he will make a statement.

Henry Bellingham: The British Government, through Department for International Development, is offering significant assistance to the Democratic Republic of Congo elections, aimed primarily at ensuring that everyone has the right to vote, and encouraging as wide a participation as possible.
	We are also supporting critical logistics assistance from MONUSCO, the UN peacekeeping force, to which the UK contributes through UN assessed contributions.
	The EU plans to deploy an election observation mission for a period of three and a half months, from the end of September 2011 until mid-January 2012. We will also stay in close contact with other Congolese and international election observers, including the Carter Centre.
	These elections can help embed a democratic tradition in Congo, and mark an important milestone on the road to lasting peace and prosperity.

Departmental Procurement

Owen Smith: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what methodology (a) his Department and (b) the non-departmental public bodies for which he is responsible used to estimate savings to the public purse made in respect of its procurement and purchasing since May 2010.

David Lidington: The Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) methodology follows the efficiency measures as defined by the Cabinet Office which drive savings in procurement, major projects and estates. In August 2011 the Cabinet Office announced £3.75 billion savings over 2010-11 supported by methodologies which include the following initiatives:
	Consulting: a moratorium is in place and savings are calculated from differences between 2009-10 and 2010-11 departmental reported spend.
	Crown Commercial Representatives (major cross-Government suppliers): savings have been agreed with individual suppliers via Memoranda of Understanding.
	Contingent labour: savings are calculated from the differences between 2009-10 and 2010-11 departmental reported spend.
	The FCO calculates its savings according to a methodology defined for each initiative, either in accordance with the Cabinet Office methodology where available or to an equivalent methodology where the category is specific to the FCO. Equivalent pricing in 2009-10 is usually taken as the baseline. Non-departmental public bodies are requested to follow the same procedures.

Departmental Work Experience

Bridget Phillipson: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs how many (a) persons undertaking unpaid work experience, (b) unpaid interns and (c) other persons in unpaid positions were working in his Department as of 1 July 2011.

Henry Bellingham: Records indicate that as of 1 July, there were no people working in unpaid positions, as unpaid interns, or doing unpaid work experience in the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO). There were, however, 33 people working on paid intern schemes, which we use to encourage participants to consider the FCO as a career.

EU Common Foreign and Security Policy

Zac Goldsmith: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what agreements on climate change and security were made at the EU Foreign Affairs Council on 18 July 2011.

Henry Bellingham: The EU Foreign Affairs Council adopted Conclusions that acknowledged the security implications and threat to stability posed by climate change, on 18 July. These Conclusions recognised that climate change acts as a threat multiplier exacerbating tensions over land, water, food and energy prices, and contributes to migratory pressures and desertification.
	The Council recognised the need to build on work already undertaken on climate change and international security and agreed the EU will continue to raise global awareness of the security risks to, and threat multiplier nature of, climate change. The Council also agreed on the need to drive forward the global debate on climate change and international security and welcomed the increasing attention of the UN Security Council on the security aspects of climate change. The Council called for increased effort from all relevant EU actors to address climate change at all political levels; agreed that climate change and international security should be a strand for action for EU climate diplomacy, and that the Council would review progress at a future Foreign Affairs Council.
	This discussion and adoption of Conclusions represents clear agreement that, as the UK National Security Strategy 2010 made clear, climate change is a foreign policy and security challenge.

European Union

Philip Davies: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what recent discussions his Department has had with representatives of the European Court of Justice on breaches of the provisions of the former Article 227 of the treaty establishing the European Community.

David Lidington: There have been no bilateral discussions between the UK and the Court on the operation of Article 227 EC (now Article 259 Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union).
	The UK agents to the Court participate in periodic meetings between the member state agents to the Court and the Court, where a broad range of issues relating to the operation and work load of the Court may be discussed, including matters such as the procedures applicable to cases under Article 259 TfEU.

Export Controls

Douglas Alexander: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs 
	(1)  what evidence his Department's recent review of export control policy considered;
	(2)  which overseas posts provided evidence considered by his Department's review of export control policy;
	(3)  which (a) officials and (b) Ministers in his Department were involved in his Department's recent review of export control policy.

William Hague: On 16 March 2011, I announced that the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) would undertake a thorough review of the UK's policy and practice with regard to the export of equipment that might be used for internal repression, in particular crowd control goods, in light of events in the Middle East and North Africa.
	All relevant FCO officials and Ministers were involved in the review, which considered evidence supplied by relevant cross-Whitehall and FCO departments. The Review also considered evidence supplied by our Posts in the following countries; Algeria, Bahrain, Egypt, Iran, Iraq, Israel, Jordan, Kuwait, Lebanon, Libya, Morocco, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Syria, Tunisia, the United Arab Emirates and Yemen.

Export Controls

Douglas Alexander: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs if he will place in the Library copies of (a) minutes, (b) evidence and (c) reports prepared as part of his Department's recent review of export control policy.

William Hague: This was an internal Foreign and Commonwealth Office review and will not be published.

Goran Hadzic

Rushanara Ali: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what recent representations he has made to his Serbian counterpart on the extradition of Goran Hadzic to the International Criminal Court; and if he will make a statement.

David Lidington: Goran Hadzic, the last remaining indictee sought by the International Criminal Tribunal for former Yugoslavia (ICTY), was arrested by the Serbian authorities on 20 July 2011 and transferred to the ICTY in The Hague on 22 July 2011. The Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs, my right hon. Friend the Member for Richmond (Yorks) (Mr Hague), in a statement on 20 July, welcomed the arrest as a historic moment for international justice and for the victims of war crimes during the Balkan conflicts of the 1990s. He expressed his hope that the arrest will mark the closing of a horrific and traumatic chapter for the people of the region. The Foreign Secretary also congratulated the Serbian authorities and called for continued co-operation with the ICTY in supporting existing and future trials. The Government will continue to give firm support to the ICTY and the vital role it plays in upholding international justice.

India: Terrorism

Douglas Alexander: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what discussions he has had with the government of India on the recent bombings in Mumbai; and if he will make a statement.

William Hague: In my statement of 13 July, I said that the bomb attacks in Mumbai were deplorable acts of terrorism. Senior members of Her Majesty's Government spoke to their counterparts after the attacks to pass condolences and offer support on behalf of the UK. The UK is committed to working with the Indian Government and other international partners to combat the threat from terrorism in all its forms.

Libya: Overseas Students

Jonathan Ashworth: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what estimate he has made of the number of Libyan national students sponsored by the Libyan Government who were studying in (a) Leicester City local authority area and (b) Leicester South constituency in academic year 2010-11.

Alistair Burt: Information relating to the time period requested is currently not available. However, the 2010-11 statistics for higher education will be published by the Higher Education Statistics Agency in January 2012, but these will cover students only in higher education, and not those in further or secondary education.

United Arab Emirates: British Nationals Abroad

Sadiq Khan: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs on how many occasions Ministers in his Department have directly contacted the government of the United Arab Emirates to express concern over the treatment of UK citizens under arrest or imprisonment in that country in each of the last five years.

Alistair Burt: This information is available only at a disproportionate cost. However, the Foreign and Commonwealth Office takes all allegations of mistreatment very seriously, and with the permission of the British national involved will raise these with the relevant local authorities. I meet my United Arab Emirates (UAE) counterpart on a quarterly basis at the UK-UAE task force and this is one opportunity to raise such cases. Our embassy would also forward the allegations of mistreatment and ask for a full, prompt and impartial investigation to be conducted.

United Arab Emirates: British Nationals Abroad

Sadiq Khan: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs how many meetings Ministers in his Department had with an hon. Member who has contacted them regarding constituents or family members of constituents who have been arrested or imprisoned in the United Arab Emirates in each of the last five years.

Alistair Burt: This information is available only at a disproportionate cost. However, Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) Ministers and our Consular Directorate in London are very happy to meet with families to talk about relatives in detention and services that the FCO can and cannot provide.

United Arab Emirates: British Nationals Abroad

Sadiq Khan: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs on how many occasions a Minister in his Department was contacted by an hon. Member in relation to constituents or family members of constituents in the United Arab Emirates who have requested assistance from the hon. Member in respect of arrest or imprisonment in that country in each of the last five years.

Alistair Burt: This information is available only at a disproportionate cost. However, Foreign and Commonwealth Office Ministers and our Consular Directorate in London are very happy to be contacted by hon. Members in relation to constituents or family members of constituents detained overseas.

United Arab Emirates: British Nationals Abroad

Sadiq Khan: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs how many UK citizens died (a) in police custody and (b) while serving a prison sentence in the United Arab Emirates in each of the last five years.

Alistair Burt: The Foreign and Commonwealth Office and our missions in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) are aware of one British national who has died in police custody. We are not aware of any British nationals who have died while serving a prison sentence in the UAE in the last five years.

United Arab Emirates: British Nationals Abroad

Sadiq Khan: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs on how many occasions UK citizens have successfully appealed against a conviction in the United Arab Emirates in each of the last five years; and in how many such cases the successful appeal followed intervention by his Department.

Alistair Burt: This information is available only at disproportionate cost. However, appealing a sentence is for an individual's lawyers to do. We are prevented by international law from interfering or intervening in the legal procedures of an independent state. The British legal system is similarly protected.

United Arab Emirates: British Nationals Abroad

Sadiq Khan: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs on how many occasions his Department has intervened in court cases involving UK citizens in the United Arab Emirates because of concerns over due process in each of the last five years.

Alistair Burt: The Foreign and Commonwealth Office is unable to intervene in the legal procedures of an independent state. The British legal system is similarly protected. However, we do make representations to the authorities of another state where we judge there has been an significant delay in process, and we can consider making representations should a lawyer of an individual feel that they are being prevented by the authorities from acting on behalf of their client or the legal procedures are being conducted in such a way that breaches local law.

United Arab Emirates: British Nationals Abroad

Sadiq Khan: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs on how many occasions his Department has been contacted by UK citizens or their families for assistance after they have been arrested in the United Arab Emirates in each of the last five years.

Alistair Burt: This information is not centrally held and is available only at disproportionate cost. Given the numbers of prisoners, and their often long-running cases, we estimate that the occasions that families have contacted the Foreign and Commonwealth Office and the embassies for assistance would run into the thousands.

United Arab Emirates: British Nationals Abroad

Sadiq Khan: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs how many British citizens have been arrested in the United Arab Emirates in each of the last five years.

Alistair Burt: The Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) and our embassies in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) will be aware of British nationals who have been detained in the UAE in each of the last five years only if the individual chooses to inform us. The number of British nationals detained in each of the last five years, of which the FCO is aware, are as follows:
	
		
			  Number 
			 2007 150 
			 2008 279 
			 2009 266 
			 2010 241 
			 2011(1) 122 
			 (1 )To date.

United Arab Emirates: British Nationals Abroad

Sadiq Khan: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs how many UK citizens are imprisoned in the United Arab Emirates (a) after conviction and (b) awaiting trial.

Alistair Burt: The Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) are aware of 35 British nationals who are currently serving a sentence in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), The FCO is also aware of 14 British nationals who are at the pre-trial stage and 124 British nationals who are on bail in the UAE. Supporting British nationals in difficulty around the world is a vital part of the work of the FCO. This support is explained in our publication ‘Support for British nationals abroad: A guide’.

United Arab Emirates: British Nationals Abroad

Sadiq Khan: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what information he holds on (a) the type of offences for which UK citizens are serving a prison sentence in the United Arab Emirates and (b) the number held for each such offence, including specifying how many are imprisoned against each offence.

Alistair Burt: The Foreign and Commonwealth Office will be aware of British nationals that are detained in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) only if they have contacted one of the British embassies for assistance. The types of offences that British nationals are serving a prison sentence for, and the number of individuals held for such offences, this year so far (as at 23 August 2011) are as follows:
	Financial charges (including bounced cheques, money laundering, fraud, counterfeit etc.): 21
	Drug and alcohol related charges (including possession and trafficking): nine
	Murder/manslaughter/assault: four
	Immigration offences/false documents: three
	Burglary/trespassing: four
	Breach of trust: two.
	Please note that some of the British nationals detained may be charged with more than one offence.

United Nations: Finance

David Amess: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs how much funding his Department plans to allocate to each agency of the United Nations in each of the next three years; and if he will make a statement.

Henry Bellingham: The Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) does not pay the regular budget (subscription costs) of the UN's specialised agencies. These costs are paid by the UK Government Department leading on the respective policy areas of the specialised agencies. FCO programme funds may in theory be used to deliver projects through UN specialised agencies in the next three financial years. However, this will depend on competing bids in the period.

United Nations: Finance

David Amess: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs how much funding his Department allocated to the United Nations in each year since 2000; how much he plans to allocate in each of the next three years; and if he will make a statement.

Henry Bellingham: The Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) pays the UK contribution to the United Nations regular budget, which covers the running costs of the UN headquarters/secretariats and some of their core activities. The UK is billed in US dollars and since 2000 has contributed a total of US$1,123,679,857. The breakdown is as follows:
	
		
			  $ 
			 2000 53,562,152 
			 2001 57,588,929 
			 2002 61,951,540 
			 2003 74,742, 944 
			 2004 87, 985,732 
			 2005 109,030,513 
			 2006 104,563,268 
			 2007 132,890,130 
			 2008 121,483,273 
			 2009 161,820,119 
			 2010 139,648,230 
			 2011 155, 107,511 
		
	
	Since 2000 the FCO has also funded a number of small projects with UN involvement. However aggregation of the data would involve disproportionate costs.
	The UN regular budget is negotiated biennially, with the next negotiation taking place this autumn for the budget period 2012-13. Furthermore the UK's share of contributions to that budget is subject to periodic changes according to the Scales of Assessment, rating countries' capacity to pay. Therefore it is not possible to project precisely what the UK will pay over the next three years.

Venezuela: Human Rights

William Bain: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what representations his Department has made to the government of Venezuela on (a) human rights and (b) compliance with international law.

Jeremy Browne: We regularly discuss human rights issues with the Government of Venezuela, both bilaterally and through the European Union (EU). In the last year, we have worked with the Venezuelan Government and Venezuelan civil society on areas of mutual interest such as police reform and good governance. Venezuela is due to be the subject of a Universal Periodic Review of its human rights record at the UN Human Rights Council in October. Venezuela has ratified the main international human rights treaties and we monitor its compliance with them, as with all countries.

WORK AND PENSIONS

Absent Parents

Kate Green: To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions what definition he uses of therapeutic justice style of approach in respect of the voluntary arrangements with non-resident parents; and if he will place in the Library the evidence on the effectiveness of a therapeutic justice style of approach.

Maria Miller: I outlined within the Work and Pension Select Committee on 15 June that therapeutic justice, as defined by the Centre for Separated Families, may play an important part of how we manage people through family breakdowns to successful outcomes for their children. The definition we are using is:
	‘Therapeutic Justice in the sense of Child Maintenance is defined as transforming behaviour by using joined up support to help parents who are struggling with the emotional impacts of separation to come to shared agreements’
	The Government are working with leading organisations to establish a coherent way in which parents can be signposted to the most appropriate support using a “therapeutic justice” style of approach—supporting parents to work through emotional issues so they can deal with more practical issues. We are enlisting the input of a Steering Group made up of academics and leading organisations from the voluntary and community sector. The Steering Group will assist in building a robust evidence base about what support can help different families and examine whether therapeutic justice would be an appropriate approach.

Access to Work Programme

Richard Fuller: To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions whether his Department plans to enable Work programme providers to provide professional qualifications.

Chris Grayling: Work programme providers have the flexibility to design personalised approaches to help people back to work. If providers consider that a professional qualification is the most appropriate route back to work for an individual, and they have the funding, then the Work programme is flexible enough to allow this.

Access to Work Programme

Richard Fuller: To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions what recent assessment he has made of the performance of Work programme providers in (a) Bedford constituency, (b) the East and (c) the UK.

Chris Grayling: All Work programme providers performed well in getting the new service up and running in every area on time.
	It will be some time yet before it is possible to assess the performance of the Work programme in getting people back to work. The programme just started in June 2011, it lasts two years for each individual and, as providers only receive job outcome payments once a participant has been in employment and off benefit for up to 26 weeks, it will be 2012 before job outcomes start to be recorded in substantial numbers.
	The Department is working to guidelines set by the UK Statistics Authority to ensure we are able to publish statistics that meet the required high quality standards at the earliest opportunity. We intend to publish national statistics on referrals to the Work programme from spring 2012 and on job outcomes from autumn 2012.
	As participation lasts for two years, we expect to see substantial indications of the success of the Work programme from spring 2013. A full independent evaluation has been commissioned for that year and I look forward to sharing the results with the House in due course. We will closely monitor the effectiveness of the programme in the interim.

Access to Work Programme: Visual Impairment

David Lammy: To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions what measures his Department has put in place to enable deafblind people to receive specialist support to access the labour market.

Chris Grayling: New measures introduced in April 2011 allow Jobcentre Plus to offer more flexible support to deaf/blind people, ensuring provision is tailored to personal and local labour market needs.
	This includes advice and support about maintaining well-being and managing health in preparation for a return to work
	A flexible support fund has been created from a number of discretionary adviser funds and programmes targeted towards overcoming barriers to employment, which district managers can use to offer additional support according to local need.
	The Work programme is a cross benefit programme that ensures providers are free to innovate and design support that addresses the needs of individuals. Work programme providers are paid more to support harder to help groups into sustained employment, including those claiming employment support allowance.
	In addition, disabled people may be able to access a range of specialist employment provision including:
	Work Choice which provides tailored support to help disabled people who face the most complex barriers to employment, find and stay in work;
	Access to Work which provides practical support to disabled people and their employers to help them overcome work related obstacles resulting from disability;
	Remploy Employment Services which delivers employment support for disabled people, including through the Work Choice programme and Remploy Enterprise Businesses—a network of 54 factories across the UK, providing supported employment to disabled people;
	Residential Training, which is delivered through nine Residential Training Colleges, providing vocational training to unemployed disabled adults.
	Jobcentre Plus disability employment advisers offer help with finding and retaining employment. Where appropriate, they can refer individuals to specialist programmes that help disabled people move into paid work, including Residential Training and Work Choice. They may also use the professional expertise of Work Psychologists specialising in working with disabled people if required. They can advocate with employers on the individual's behalf and help employers to explore job solutions such as the restructuring of a job's tasks or the environment, or the provision of, or change to equipment.

Access to Work Programme: Visual Impairment

David Lammy: To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions if he will review the provision of specialist support services for deafblind people through the Access to Work programme.

Chris Grayling: Access to Work is a pan disability programme. While there are no plans to specifically review how Access to Work support for the deafblind is delivered the Department is currently considering how to update the range of support it provides for disabled people in the light of the Sayce review recommendations and subsequent consultation.

Access to Work Programme: Visual Impairment

David Lammy: To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions what incentives are in place to encourage Work programme providers to support people with combined hearing and sight loss into sustained employment.

Chris Grayling: The Work programme is designed to give providers the flexibility to design personalised approaches to help each individual participant back to work.
	Providers delivering the Work programme have been chosen, among other reasons, for their ability to deliver specialist support to people who have longer term barriers to work, including physical barriers such as hearing and sight loss. They will be predominantly paid by results, for helping people into sustained jobs and with higher payments for the hardest to help. This incentive ensures it is in providers' financial interests to help all individuals overcome their personal challenges.
	We recognise there will be some for whom the Work programme is not appropriate. The Government are committed to supporting severely disabled people and so the Work Choice programme provides more intensive support for disabled people with more complex barriers to finding and staying in employment.

Access to Work Programme: Visual Impairment

David Lammy: To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions what employment support his Department provides to deafblind people placed in the work-related activity group who will not be fit for work within three months.

Chris Grayling: Jobcentre Plus advisers offer back-to-work support for all people claiming employment and support allowance, whether they are placed in the support group or the work related activity group (WRAG). Those in the support group can access this help voluntarily; most of those in the WRAG are expected to take steps to prepare themselves for a return to work. This support is available from the individual's Jobcentre Plus adviser or via a Work programme provider where a person volunteers for, or is required to join, this new scheme. A diagnosis of every individual's circumstances is performed to establish a tailor-made package of support or training that will best help that person to secure work.
	Assistance available from Jobcentre Plus includes the “Get Britain Working” measures and locally arranged provision as agreed by the Jobcentre Plus District manager to reflect the local labour market.
	Specialist help is also available via disability employment advisers (DEAs) who can refer individuals to specialist programmes, including Residential Training and Work Choice. They may also use the professional expertise of work psychologists specialising in working with disabled people if required. They can advocate with employers on the individual's behalf and help employers to explore job solutions such as the restructuring of a job's tasks or the environment, or the provision of, or change to equipment. They can also signpost customers to the Access to Work service.

Children: Maintenance

John Mann: To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions what assessment he has made of the use of exemptions of overseas earnings from payments to the Child Support Agency for fathers employed by (a) overseas companies, (b) offshore companies and (c) shipping and other sea-based companies.

Maria Miller: The Child Maintenance and Enforcement Commission is responsible for the child maintenance system. I have asked the Child Maintenance Commissioner to write to the hon. Member with the information requested and I have seen the response.
	Letter from Noel Shanahan
	In reply to your recent Parliamentary Question about the Child Support Agency, the Secretary of State promised a substantive reply from the Child Maintenance Commissioner as the Child Support Agency is now the responsibility of the Child Maintenance and Enforcement Commission.
	You asked the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, what assessment he has made of the. use of exemptions of overseas earnings from payments to the Child Support Agency for fathers employed by (a) overseas companies, (b) offshore companies and (c) shipping and other sea-based companies.
	The Child Maintenance and Enforcement Commission (the Commission) has jurisdiction, i.e. legal authority, to make a maintenance calculation and collect child support maintenance only when the parent with care, the non-resident parent and the qualifying child are all habitually resident in the United Kingdom (UK). Habitual residence is a legal concept which means more than simply 'where you live'. A person can habitually reside in more than one country or in none. Habitual residence can continue during an absence from UK.
	Under the current child maintenance scheme, which deals with cases opened since March 2003, if the non-resident parent works for a company based overseas, it is not possible for earnings on which UK tax has not been paid to be taken into account within the maintenance calculation. This is because such earnings do not align with the statutory definition of net weekly earnings upon which the calculation is based. The Commission continues to have jurisdiction over any additional income earned and taxed in Great Britain. Any arrears that were built up while the non-resident parent was earning in Great Britain would continue to be enforceable if the non-resident parent subsequently became entirely dependent on income from overseas.
	The Commission has reviewed child maintenance cases under the 2003 child maintenance scheme where the Commission determines a non-resident parent has no assessable income and is presently in the process of proposing regulatory changes which will resolve this anomaly to some degree.
	The Commission has just launched an external consultation with stakeholders on these regulatory changes; one of which will include a new measure that would allow the Commission to take into account the UK taxable earnings of all non-resident parents (including those that work offshore and seafarers) that are habitually resident in the UK, even if they are paid abroad. This will reduce the number of cases where the Commission is required to make a nil-assessment. The Consultation commenced on the 26 July and will end on 26 October 2011. You can obtain a copy of the consultation at the following link:
	http://www.childmaintenance.org/en/pdf/CSMA-Consultation-May-2011.pdf
	We are also aware that there might -be a small proportion of non-resident parents, who although habitually resident in the UK for child maintenance purposes are non-resident for UK tax purposes; and as such will continue to be nil-assessed. We are presently reviewing this matter to establish how best to handle such cases.
	Finally, I should also add that recent EU legislation which came into effect in June 2011 allows the Commission to recover arrears of maintenance which have arisen in a case within the statutory maintenance schemes from non-resident parents who live within the EU.
	I hope you find this answer helpful.

Children: Maintenance

John Mann: To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions how many mothers were refused payments from the Child Support Agency as a result of the father receiving his earnings overseas in the latest period for which figures are available.

Maria Miller: The Child Maintenance and Enforcement Commission is responsible for the child maintenance system. I have asked the Child Maintenance Commissioner to write to the hon. Member with the information requested and I have seen the response.
	Letter from Noel Shanahan
	In reply to your recent Parliamentary Question about the Child Support Agency, the Secretary of State promised a substantive reply from the Child Maintenance Commissioner as the Child Support Agency is now the responsibility of the Child Maintenance and Enforcement Commission.
	You asked the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, how many mothers were refused payments from the Child Support Agency as a result of the father receiving his earnings overseas in the latest period for which figures are available.
	Information is not available for the number of mothers refused payments from the Child Support Agency as a result of the father receiving his earnings overseas.
	The Child Support Agency does however record the number of live cases where the residential address of the non-resident parentis abroad. As at June 2011 there were 7,130 live cases where the non-resident parent is recorded as living abroad. Of these, 5,020 cases existed where there was a liability to pay child maintenance with 2,110 cases being nil-assessed. Management information does not record the reason why cases are nil-assessed. Maintenance was received in 3,440 of the cases with a liability to pay maintenance.
	The fact the non resident parent lives abroad does not necessarily mean that all of their income is earned abroad
	I hope you find this answer helpful.

Council Tax

Caroline Flint: To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions what estimate his Department has made of likely (a) demand and (b) take-up of council tax benefit in (i) England and (ii) each local authority area in each of the next five years.

Steve Webb: The forecast number of council tax benefit claimants in England from 2011-12 to 2015-16 is in the table. Forecasts are not produced at local authority level.
	
		
			  2011-12 2012-13 2013-14 2014-15 2015-16 
			 Council Tax Benefit claimants in England (thousand) 4,908 4,818 4,684 4,575 4,501 
			 Source: Budget 2011 forecasts. 
		
	
	Forecasts are for the numbers of people who are receiving council tax benefit at a point in time. There are no forecasts of numbers eligible, or numbers who make a claim. The most recent estimate of council tax benefit take-up for Great Britain can be found at:
	http://research.dwp.gov.uk/asd/income_analysis/jun_2010/0809_Summary.pdf
	Forecasts assume the current structure of council tax benefit remains in place throughout the period shown.

Crisis Loans

Philip Davies: To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions how many people have received crisis loans in each of the last three years; what the total monetary value was of such loans; and how much his Department has written off in respect of such loans.

Steve Webb: The information is as follows:
	
		
			  Number of awards Amount awarded (£) Amount written off (£) 
			 2008-09 1,964,700 167,011,300 582,000 
			 2009-10 2,696,800 228,845,800 545,000 
			 2010-11 2,657,100 228,344,100 537,000 
			 Notes: 1. The social fund does not normally write of debt. However, there are some circumstance where write-off is legitimate, i.e. the claimant: has died (and there is no estate to recover from); has been deported or gone abroad (and there is no probability of returning to the country); cannot be found; has received a custodial sentence (i.e. long- term prisoners) or is bankrupt. 2. The information has been provided for the past three full years for when data is available. 3. The figures have been rounded to the nearest hundred. 4. Figures are for applications received, not for the number of people who made an application, and for initial awards made, not the number of people who received an initial award. (Some people made more than one application or received more than one initial award.) 5. The information provided is Management Information. Our preference is to answer all parliamentary questions using Official/National Statistics but in this case we only have Management Information available. It is not quality assured to the same extent as Official/National statistics and there are some issues with the data; for example, it does not include applications which were processed clerically and have not yet been entered on to the social fund computer system. 6. If an applicant receives an initial award and this award is increased on first review in the same month as the initial award was made, then the Policy, Budget and Management Information System (PBMIS) does not count the initial award and the review award separately, but counts one award on the one application. However, if a first review award is made in a later month than the initial award, then PBMIS counts two awards on the one application. Similarly, if an initial or first review award is increased by the Independent Review Service, then all awards made in the same month on one application count as one award. However, if an initial award or any review award(s) on one application are made in different months, then PBMIS will count one award for each month in which an initial or review award was made. Because of this counting method, only the numbers of initial awards have been given.

Departmental Foreign Workers

Mary Glindon: To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions pursuant to his oral answer of 18 July 2011, Official Report, columns 603-4W, on departmental jobs (relocation), by what means he will ensure that the Department's subcontractor for the Adams 2 contract will minimise future offshoring of jobs from North Tyneside.

Chris Grayling: The Department is in discussions with the sub-contractor for the Adams 2 contract about the best way of ensuring that UK jobs remain in the UK. The Department will provide further information on the outcome of these discussions in due time.

Departmental Procurement

Owen Smith: To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions what methodology (a) his Department and (b) the non-departmental public bodies for which he is responsible used to estimate savings to the public purse made in respect of its procurement and purchasing since May 2010.

Chris Grayling: Procurement and purchasing in the Department for Work and Pensions and its non-departmental public bodies is conducted under a commercial strategy that has an objective to achieve the best outcome for the UK taxpayer in terms of cost, quality and business outcome. Progress against this objective has been measured since 2001 by a key performance indicator that reports the commercial function's contribution to the Department living within its spending review allocations. This indicator is based on tracking all commercial expenditure and measuring procurement value for money gains. The Department uses a procurement value for money measurement methodology initially developed by the then Office of Government Commerce (OGC) in response to the Peter Gershon Review of 1998-99. The methodology was subsequently updated by OGC to reflect new efficiency policy.
	The methodology is applied in the Department by procurement category teams and results are subject to annual internal audit. It allows savings to be counted from the value added by procurement negotiations, collaboration, process efficiencies and improved contract or asset management. It also provides a distinction between procurement action that releases cash and other action that adds value but does not release cash, for example cost avoidance by resisting a suppliers bid to raise prices.
	Since May 2010 the Department has worked with the Efficiency and Reform Group to incorporate savings from Crown supplier negotiations and centralised procurement into departmental procurement savings results.

Departmental Work Experience

Bridget Phillipson: To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions how many (a) persons undertaking unpaid work experience, (b) unpaid interns and (c) other persons in unpaid positions were working in his Department as of 1 July 2011.

Chris Grayling: In response to the parliamentary question asking the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, how many persons:
	(a) undertaking unpaid work experience, in his Department as of 1 July 2011
	The first people commenced their unpaid work experience on 11 July.
	As of 5 August there were 49 placements on unpaid work experience.
	(b) unpaid interns in his Department as of the 1 July 2011
	There are two pilot Whitehall internship schemes, that DWP have been involved in, which are explained as follows:
	Pilot 1—6th Form College Level
	The pilot programme involved 60 interns and took place between 25 July-5 August 2011. DWP provided work placements for six of the 60 interns.
	Pilot 2—Secondary school year 9 level
	The pilot programme took place on Thursday 7 July 2011 and provided participants with an opportunity to listen to Whitehall guest speakers in the morning and an afternoon visit to Civil Service Live.
	(c) in unpaid positions were working in his Department as of 1 July 2011
	There is no record of any other unpaid positions within DWP on the date in question.

Disability Living Allowance: Care Homes

Yasmin Qureshi: To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions 
	(1)  when he expects to announce the outcome of his review of the proposal to withdraw the mobility component of disability living allowance from people in residential care;
	(2)  what process his Department will follow to resolve any overlap in funding of the mobility component of the disability living allowance to people in residential care homes.

Maria Miller: Officials in the Department for Work and Pensions are considering existing evidence and gathering more to determine the extent to which there are overlaps in provision for mobility needs of people in residential care homes. This work should be completed shortly and we will then make a final decision on the way forward. We are committed to getting this right to ensure that disabled people are able to get out and about and live independently. Any changes will be rolled into the introduction of personal independence payment from April 2013.

Disability Living Allowance: St Helens

Shaun Woodward: To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions 
	(1)  how many people in St Helens South and Whiston constituency were in receipt of disability living allowance including the (a) higher and (b) lower rate mobility component in each of the last three years;
	(2)  how many people in St Helens South and Whiston constituency were in receipt of disability living allowance in the latest period for which figures are available; how many such recipients have been interviewed and their benefits reassessed since May 2010; and how many (a) were awarded a lower level of benefit, (b) lost all of their allowance and (c) were successful on appeal.

Maria Miller: The information requested on the number of people in St Helens South and Whiston constituency in receipt of disability living allowance mobility component is contained in the following table. Information regarding how many people in St Helens South and Whiston constituency have been interviewed and their DLA reassessed since May 2010, and how many (a) were awarded a lower level of benefit, lost all of their allowance or were successful on appeal is not routinely collated and could be obtained only at disproportionate cost.
	
		
			 The number of disability living allowance recipients by mobility component in St Helens South and Whiston parliamentary constituency in each of the last three years 
			  Total Higher rate mobility Lower rate mobility Nil rate mobility 
			 November 2010 9,160 6,160 2,100 900 
			 November 2009 7,690 5,240 1,700 760 
			 November 2008 7,600 5,240 1,600 750 
			 Notes: 1. Caseload figures are rounded to the nearest 10. 2. Figures do not include people with entitlement where the payment has been suspended, for example if they are in hospital. 3. Constituencies used for November 2010 are for the Westminster Parliament of May 2010. ‘St Helens South’ constituency is used for November 2009 and 2008 from the Westminster Parliament of 2005. 4. Those with ‘nil rate’ of mobility component are in receipt of the care component. Source: DWP Information Directorate: Work and Pensions Longitudinal Study

Disability Living Allowance: Visual Impairment

Derek Twigg: To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions for what reasons the higher rate mobility component of disability living allowance cannot be paid to severely visually impaired people who claim it for the first time when they are aged 65 and over.

Maria Miller: Disability living allowance is intended to focus additional help with the extra cost of disability on people who have the very considerable disadvantage of being severely disabled earlier in life and who as a consequence have less opportunity, to work, earn and save compared to non-disabled people. It is normal for pensions and benefit schemes to contain different provisions for people at different stages of their lives.
	Where someone is in receipt of the higher rate mobility component before their 65(th) birthday, it can remain in payment beyond age 65 as long as the conditions of entitlement remain satisfied. A new entitlement to the higher rate mobility component, under whatever provision, cannot be established after the age of 65 as to do so would not be consistent with the principle of this benefit which is to ensure that additional help is focussed to those who become disabled earlier in life.

Employment and Support Allowance

Duncan Hames: To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions what proportion of applications for employment and support allowance made by residents of (a) Chippenham constituency and (b) England and Wales were rejected on the basis of a work capability assessment in 2010-11; and in respect of what proportion of such applications that decision was (i) reversed and (ii) upheld on appeal.

Chris Grayling: The data on Work Capability Assessments are not held at a constituency level—however, it is possible to provide information for Wiltshire Unitary Authority (UA).
	The data are not available for the financial year 2010-11.
	Table 1 presents data for all new employment and support allowance (ESA) claims starting between October 2008 and November 2010 (the latest data available). Figures are for initial assessments only and numbers have been rounded to the nearest 10.
	
		
			 Table 1: Fit for work decisions on new ESA claims 
			  Fit for work Percentage of all new ESA claims  (1) 
			 England and Wales 453,850 38 
			 Wiltshire UA 2,260 33 
			 (1) Includes claims that are closed before assessment and those still in progress. 
		
	
	Table 2 shows appeals heard on fit for work decisions for claims starting between October 2008 and May 2010. Figures are for initial assessments only and numbers have been rounded to the nearest 10.
	
		
			 Table 2: Appeals heard on fit for work decisions 
			  Decision in favour of appellant Decision in favour of appellant (percentage) DWP decision upheld DWP decision upheld (percentage) 
			 England and Wales 47,280 38 76,490 62 
			 Wiltshire UA 260 46 310 54 
			 Notes: 1. The Department regularly publishes official statistics on the employment and support allowance (ESA) work capability assessment at the national level. The latest report, published in July 2011, covers new claimants to ESA for October 2008 to November 2010 (the latest data available) and can be found here: http://research.dwp.gov.uk/asd/workingage/index.php?page=esa_wca 2. The data presented above comes from benefit claims data held by the Department for Work and Pensions, functional assessment data from Atos Healthcare and appeals data from the Tribunals Service. 3. Data on appeals includes ESA claims up to the end of May 2010 (the latest month where we have sufficient volumes of appeals heard to include in the publication) where the person claiming has been assessed to be fit for work, they subsequently appeal the Department's decision and the appeal has been heard by Tribunals Service. 
		
	
	Due to the time it takes for appeals to be submitted to the Tribunals Service and heard, it is likely that there are more appeals that have not yet been heard. Therefore these figures should be treated as emerging findings rather than final at this stage.

Incapacity Benefits

David Morris: To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions 
	(1)  in what circumstances incapacity benefit claimants are to return to their previous payments if they returned to work but need a break on health grounds;
	(2)  whether he has any plans to simplify the claim form to be completed by multiple sclerosis sufferers who return to work and then require a break on health grounds.

Chris Grayling: Incapacity benefit claimants who return to work are not able to return to incapacity benefit. From October 2008, employment and support allowance replaced incapacity benefit, severe disablement allowance and income support paid on incapacity grounds for new claims. Access to these old style disability benefits was closed from 31 January 2011. A person who is unable to work because of illness or disability will need to claim employment and support allowance.
	There are no plans to change the employment and support allowance claim form for multiple sclerosis sufferers. The claim form is, however, kept under review. It is also possible to claim by telephoning 0800 055 6688 and an adviser can gather the necessary information thus avoiding the need for a claim form.

Industrial Health and Safety

Margot James: To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions 
	(1)  with reference to the review of health and safety by Lord Young, Common Sense, Common Safety, whether the Health and Safety Executive has established a minimum standard of professional qualification for all those operating as consultants in the health and safety industry;
	(2)  with reference to the review of health and safety by Lord Young, Common Sense, Common Safety, whether the Health and Safety Executive has established a web-based directory of accredited health and safety consultants;
	(3)  what progress has been made on the Health and Safety Executive's consultations on (a) the operation of Reporting of Injuries, Diseases and Dangerous Occurrences Regulations, (b) a draft voluntary code of practice to replace the existing Adventure Activities Licensing Authority regime and (c) consolidating health and safety legislation into a single set of regulations;
	(4)  with reference to the review of health and safety by Lord Young, Common Sense, Common Safety, whether the Health and Safety Executive has instituted periodic checklists for use by low risk voluntary organisations to check compliance against regulations;
	(5)  with reference to the review of health and safety by Lord Young, Common Sense, Common Safety, whether the Health and Safety Executive has published revised guidance for police and fire officers undertaking heroic acts;
	(6)  with reference to the review of health and safety by Lord Young, Common Sense, Common Safety, whether (a) his Department and (b) the Health and Safety Executive has produced guidance under the Code of Practice for small and medium-sized businesses engaged in lower risk activities.

Chris Grayling: Regular updates on progress against the Common Sense Common Safety recommendations, according to the Government body which is responsible for updating them, are published on the DWP website at
	http://www.dwp.gov.uk/policy/health-and-safety/

Jobcentre Plus: Vacancies

Zac Goldsmith: To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions how many job vacancies were advertised in Jobcentre Plus branches in Richmond Park constituency in the latest period for which figures are available.

Chris Grayling: In June 2011, 269 job vacancies were advertised in Jobcentre offices in the Richmond Park constituency.

Jobseeker's Allowance

David Evennett: To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions what steps he is taking to ensure that claims for jobseeker's allowance and employment and support allowance are processed promptly.

Chris Grayling: Jobcentre Plus monitors the average time taken to process new claims via internal measurement indicators using an Average Actual Clearance Time (AACT) and Time band clearance rates for jobseekers allowance and employment and support allowance.
	As well as gathering the data we take steps to ensure it is used and cases are processed promptly. We produce a series of reports to site level that enables local managers to identify hotspots and issues where we feel the levels being achieved are impacting on the customer's claim being cleared promptly.
	We charge managers with being accountable for prompt handling of claims. Senior Managers within Jobcentre Plus regularly monitor this area of performance and commission improvement work.
	In addition we monitor against agreed performance levels through Performance Management Framework.

Jobseeker's Allowance: Lone Parents

Kerry McCarthy: To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions what guidance his Department provides to Jobcentre Plus staff on the provision of advice on jobs outside of school hours for lone parents in receipt of jobseeker's allowance.

Chris Grayling: At the outset of a claim to jobseeker's allowance, guidance to Jobcentre Plus advisers is to discuss and put in place a Jobseeker's agreement, which contains information about the type of work being sought, the claimant's availability for work and jobsearch activities that, if taken, offer best prospects of employment.
	Guidance stresses the importance of taking into account individual personal circumstances, including child care responsibilities and agreeing appropriate restrictions on the claimant's availability for work, eg lone parents with a child aged 12 or under may restrict their availability to their child's normal school hours.
	Taking into account the claimant's agreed availability for work, advisers provide information, advice and guidance on how best to identify and apply for suitable jobs, including those outside of school hours, where they are appropriate given the claimant's circumstances. The adviser can also offer ongoing personalised support which may include pre and post employment support, appropriate training; signposting to other relevant services and information about the support available to help overcome issues that may be making it harder to find and keep jobs, for example, in-work financial support and information about available child care.
	For many parents to enter sustained employment they will need to source and utilise formal child care. Advisers recognise the importance of child care as a key enabler to work and therefore provide parents with the necessary support, assistance and advice to overcome this barrier to work.

Pensioners: Poverty

Jonathan Ashworth: To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions how many (a) pensioners and (b) children in Leicester are living in a household with under 60% of the median income.

Steve Webb: Estimates of the number and proportion of children and pensioners living in poverty are published in the Households Below Average Income (HBAI) series. HBAI uses household (rather than family) income adjusted (or “equivalised”) for household size and composition, to provide a proxy for standard of living.
	The sample size of this survey is not sufficient to provide estimates for small areas such as Leicester. However, figures at a regional level, for the East Midlands are available. Three survey years have been combined to ensure sufficient sample sizes.
	Statistics covering 2007-08 to 2009-10 are the most recent available and are shown in the following table.
	The targets set out in the Child Poverty Act and our broader set of income measures in the Child Poverty Strategy are calculated on a “Before Housing Costs” (BHC) basis. International comparisons are also calculated this way.
	When considering the living standards of children, measures After Housing Costs (AHC) can underestimate the true standard of living as a family may make a choice to spend more on rent or mortgage to attain a higher standard of accommodation.
	Conversely measures for pensioners are generally on an After Housing Costs basis. This is because pensioners are far more likely to own their homes outright and so receive value from housing, without having to pay for rent or mortgage payments out of their current income. So for assessing pensioner poverty a Before Housing Costs basis does not provide a good comparison of living standards.
	
		
			 Numbers and proportions of children and pensioners in low income households  (1)   in East Midlands Region 2007-08 to 2009-10 
			  Number Proportion (Percentage) 
			 (a) Pensioners (After Housing Costs) 200,000 18 
			 (b) Children (Before Housing Costs) 200,000 23 
			 (1) Below 60% median. Notes: 1. These statistics are based on Households Below Average Income (HBAI) data available at: http://research.dwp.gov.uk/asd/index.php? page=hbai_arc 2. These statistics are based on Households Below Average Income (HBAI) data sourced from the Family Resources Survey (FRS). This uses disposable household income, adjusted using modified OECD equivalisation factors for household size and composition, as an income measure as a proxy for standard of living. 3. Net disposable incomes have been used to answer the question. This includes earnings from employment and self-employment, state support, income from occupational and private pensions, investment income and other sources. Income tax, payments, national Insurance contributions, council tax/domestic rates and some other payments are deducted from incomes. 4. Figures have been presented on a Before Housing Cost and After Housing Cost basis. For Before Housing Costs, housing costs are not deducted from income, while for After Housing Costs they are. 5. All estimates are based on survey data and are therefore subject to a degree of uncertainty. Small differences should be treated with caution as these will be affected by sampling error and variability in non-response. 6. The reference period for HBAI figures is the financial year. 7. Numbers of children and pensioners have been rounded to the nearest hundred thousand children. 8. Proportions in low-income households have been rounded to the nearest percentage point. Source: Households Below Average Income.

Personal Independence Payment

David Morris: To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions whether the mobility element of the personal independence payment will be payable once claimants reach pensionable age.

Maria Miller: Individuals will be able to make a new claim for personal independence payment up to the age of 65 or state pension age, if that is higher. We recognise that individuals who develop additional needs earlier in their lives have had less opportunity to earn and save for later life. Therefore we intend in regulations to detail that individuals already in receipt of personal independence payment when they reach state pension age to continue to receive the benefit, this will include the mobility element, subject to the entitlement conditions continuing to be satisfied.

Personal Independence Payment: Visual Impairment

Yasmin Qureshi: To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions 
	(1)  how many blind people in receipt of disability living allowance will be reassessed for the personal independence payment;
	(2)  what estimate he has made of the number of people on higher rate care and/or the mobility component of Disability Living Allowance who are to be reassessed for the personal independence payment by 2015-16.

Maria Miller: We will replace disability living allowance for people of working age with personal independence payment, a new, more transparent and sustainable benefit with an objective assessment of individual need. Support through personal independence payment will be focused on those with the most need. The detailed criteria that will be used in the new assessment to determine eligibility are currently being developed and tested, informed by comments on our initial draft regulations, which we published on 9 May 2011.
	At this stage, it is not possible to provide an assessment of the impact of personal independence payment on the pool of existing recipients of disability living allowance. However, we are working with disabled people and the organisations that represent them on the design and delivery of personal independence payment and the outcomes from this work will be reflected in updates to the impact assessment for this change.
	Personal independence payment will be introduced for new claimants from April 2013. We will also reassess the existing disability living allowance (DLA) working-age (16-64) case load over three years beginning in 2013 and transfer individuals who are eligible for personal independence payment to the new benefit. Working-age individuals in receipt of DLA whose main disabling condition is blindness will be included in this exercise.
	
		
			 DLA cases in payment where the main disabling condition is blindness—February 2011 
			 Blindness Number 
			 Total 70,400 
			 Aged 16-64 45,800 
			 Notes: 1. Case load figures are rounded to the nearest hundred. 2. Figures are adjusted to be consistent with the overall caseload from the Work and Pensions Longitudinal Study (WPLS). 3. Figures do not include people with entitlement where the payment has been suspended for example if they are in hospital. 4. The preferred data source for benefit statistics is 100% Work and Pensions Longitudinal Study. However, the 5% sample data is generally the preferred source for analysis on disabling condition as information is more complete for disabling condition on the 5% sample (Some recipients of DLA who transferred from the AA system may not have been allocated a specific disabling condition code. This problem can be corrected on the sample data but not on the WPLS data. The number of cases affected is decreasing over time). 5. A diagnosed medical condition does not mean that someone is automatically entitled to DLA. Entitlement is dependent on an assessment of how much help someone needs with personal care and/or mobility because of their disability. These statistics are only collected for administrative purposes. Source: DWP Information Directorate: Sample data (5%)

Remploy

Julie Elliott: To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions 
	(1)  what steps he is taking to ensure that Remploy is not replacing the jobs of employees who were recently made redundant;
	(2)  what recent discussions he has had with Remploy on the filling of posts of employees who were recently made redundant.

Maria Miller: DWP Ministers agree the funding, objectives and performance targets for the company.
	The voluntary redundancy scheme was a management matter for Remploy. Remploy have assured my officials that the company are committed to honouring their legal obligations for the voluntary redundancy scheme. They have confirmed there will be no external recruitment to fill posts where employees took voluntary redundancy.

Social Security Benefits: Disability

Tracey Crouch: To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions how many people in Chatham and Aylesford constituency (a) of each age group, (b) of each sex, (c) with each physical disability and (d) with each mental health diagnosis are in receipt of disability benefits; and if he will make a statement.

Maria Miller: The information requested is contained in the following tables.
	
		
			 Disability living allowance (DLA) recipients in Chatham and Aylesford parliamentary constituency by main disabling condition, of physical and mental health disabilities, age and sex—February 2011 
			  Total with physical or mental health disabilities Mental health disabilities Physical disabilities 
			  All Female Male All Female Male All Female Male 
			 All 4,880 2,300 2,580 1,530 580 950 3,350 1,720 1,630 
			 Under 5 100 30 70 40 10 30 60 20 40 
			 5 to under 11 330 90 240 220 50 170 110 40 70 
			 11 to under 16 430 120 310 250 60 190 170 60 120 
			 16-17 140 40 100 90 20 60 60 20 40 
			 18-24 330 110 220 200 60 140 130 50 80 
			 25-29 180 80 100 100 50 60 80 40 50 
			 30-34 180 90 90 70 30 40 110 60 50 
			 35-39 220 110 100 90 40 50 130 80 50 
			 40-44 320 170 140 110 60 50 210 120 90 
			 45-49 380 200 180 110 60 50 270 140 130 
			 50-54 390 220 170 80 40 40 320 180 130 
			 55-59 440 240 200 60 30 30 380 200 170 
			 60-64 560 310 250 60 40 20 500 270 230 
			 65-69 390 200 200 30 10 10 370 190 190 
		
	
	
		
			 70-74 260 150 110 20 10 10 240 140 100 
			 75-79 150 80 70 10 — — 140 80 60 
			 80-84 60 40 20 — — — 60 40 20 
			 85-89 10 10 — — — — 10 10 — 
			 90 and over — — — — — — — — — 
			 Source: DWP Information Directorate: Work and Pensions Longitudinal Study (WPLS) 
		
	
	
		
			 Attendance allowance (AA) recipients in Chatham and Aylesford parliamentary constituency by main disabling condition, of physical and mental health disabilities, age and sex—February 201 
			  Total with physical or mental health disabilities Mental health disabilities Physical disabilities 
			  All Female Male All Female Male All Female Male 
			 All 1,810 1,240 570 200 130 70 1,610 1,110 500 
			 65-69 80 50 40 10 — 10 70 40 30 
			 70-74 250 150 100 20 10 10 220 140 90 
			 75-79 400 250 150 50 30 20 360 230 130 
			 80-84 410 280 130 60 40 10 360 240 120 
			 85-89 410 310 100 40 30 10 360 280 90 
			 90 and over 260 200 60 20 20 10 240 190 50 
			 Notes: 1. Caseloads are rounded to the nearest 10. Totals may not sum due to rounding. 2. ‘—’ denotes nil or negligible. 3. Where more than one disability is present only the main disabling condition is recorded. 4. Figures show the number of people in receipt of an allowance, and excludes people with entitlement where the payment has been suspended, for example if they are in hospital. 5. ‘Mental health disabilities’ encompass the main disabling conditions ‘learning difficulties’ and ‘mental and behavioural disabilities’. In October 2008 much finer classifications were introduced for new DLA claimants. DWP do not report on these finer classifications as the majority of pre-2008 claims still have the “old codes” on the administrative system. A new code (cognitive disorders—other/type not known) was introduced within the general classification of “psychiatric disorders”. Claimants allocated to this group are included within “mental health disorders”. 6. “Physical disabilities” encompass all categories not included in “mental health disabilities”, including the main disabling conditions arthritis, muscle/joint/bone disease, blindness, stroke related, epilepsy, deafness, malignant disease, chest disease, back ailments, heart disease, Parkinson's disease, diabetes mellitus, renal disorders, aids, skin disease, frailty, multiple sclerosis. The small number of cases with unknown medical code (see note 7) have been included in “physical disorders”). 7. The preferred data source for benefit statistics is 100% Work and Pensions Longitudinal Study. However, the 5% sample data are generally the preferred source for analysis on DLA disabling condition as information is more complete. However in this case the WPLS data have been used as some of the caseload figures produced are very small and so would have a high level of statistical variation should the sample data have been used. 8. Parliamentary constituency is based on the Westminster Parliament of May 2010. Source: DWP Information Directorate: Work and Pensions Longitudinal Study (WPLS) 
		
	
	
		
			 Disability living allowance (DLA) recipients in Chatham and Aylesford parliamentary constituency by main disabling condition, of each physical or mental health disability by gender—February 2011 
			   Total Female Male 
			 Chatham and Aylesford parliamentary constituency  4,880 2,300 2,580 
			 Mental health disabilities:  1,530 580 950 
			  Behavioural disorder 150 30 120 
			  Dementia 20 10 10 
			  Learning difficulty 810 260 560 
			  Personality disorder 30 20 10 
			  Psychiatric disorders — — — 
			  Psychoneurosis 210 130 80 
			  Psychosis 270 130 140 
			  Severely mentally impaired 30 10 20 
			 Physical disabilities:  3,350 1,720 1,630 
			  AIDS 10 — 10 
			  Alcohol and drug abuse 30 10 20 
			  Arthritis 670 440 230 
			  Asthma 30 20 10 
			  Back pain—not specified 250 130 120 
			  Blindness 110 50 50 
			  Blood disorders 10 10 — 
			  Bowel and stomach disease 30 20 10 
			  Cerebrovascular disease 140 70 70 
		
	
	
		
			  Chest disease 140 50 80 
			  Chronic fatigue syndrome 60 60 10 
			  Cystic fibrosis 10 — — 
			  Deafness 90 40 50 
			  Diabetes mellitus 100 40 50 
			  Disease of the muscles, bones or joints 300 170 130 
			  Double amputee — — — 
			  Epilepsy 130 60 70 
			  Frailty — — — 
			  Haemodialysis — — — 
			  Haemophilia 10 — 10 
			  Heart disease 140 40 100 
			  Hyperkinetic syndrome 190 30 160 
			  Infectious disease — — — 
			  Inflammatory bowel disease 10 10 — 
			  Major trauma other than traumatic paraplegia 30 10 20 
			  Malignant disease 130 70 60 
			  Metabolic disease 30 20 10 
			  Motor neurone disease — — — 
			  Multi system disorders 10 10 — 
			  Multiple sclerosis 120 80 40 
			  Neurological disease 200 100 100 
			  Other unspecified mainly terminally ill 10 — — 
			  Parkinson's disease 20 10 10 
			  Peripheral vascular disease 20 10 10 
			  Renal disorders 20 10 10 
			  Skin disease 20 10 10 
			  Spondylosis 110 60 50 
			  Total parenteral nutrition — — — 
			  Trauma to limbs 80 30 50 
			  Traumatic paraplegia/tetraplegia 10 — 10 
			  Unknown 100 60 40 
			 Source: DWP Information Directorate: Work and Pensions Longitudinal Study (WPLS) 
		
	
	
		
			 Attendance allowance (AA) recipients in Chatham and Aylesford parliamentary constituency by main disabling condition, of each physical or mental health disabilities, by gender, February 2011 
			   Total Female Male 
			 Chatham and Aylesford parliamentary constituency  1,810 1,240 570 
		
	
	
		
			 Mental health disabilities:  200 130 70 
			  Dementia 170 110 50 
			  Learning difficulty 10 — — 
			  Psychiatric disorders — — — 
			  Psychoneurosis 10 10 — 
			  Psychosis 10 10 — 
			 Physical disabilities:  1,610 1,110 500 
			  Arthritis 580 460 120 
			  Asthma 20 10 — 
			  Back pain—not specified 30 ___| 20 10 
			  Blindness 80 60 20 
			  Blood disorders — — — 
			  Bowel and stomach disease — — — 
			  Cerebrovascular disease 110 50 60 
			  Chest disease 90 40 50 
			  Chronic fatigue syndrome — — — 
			  Deafness 10 — — 
			  Diabetes mellitus 40 30 10 
			  Disease of the muscles, bones or joints 110 80 30 
			  Epilepsy — — — 
			  Frailty 150 110 40 
			  Haemodialysis — — — 
			  Heart disease 130 80 50 
			  Inflammatory bowel disease 10 — — 
			  Major trauma other than traumatic paraplegia — — — 
			  Malignant disease 50 30 20 
			  Metabolic disease — — — 
			  Multi system disorders — — — 
			  Multiple sclerosis 10 — — 
			  Neurological disease 20 10 10 
			  Other unspecified mainly terminally ill 40 30  
			  Parkinson's disease 50 20 30 
			  Peripheral vascular disease 10 — 10 
			  Renal disorders 10 10 — 
			  Skin disease — — — 
			  Spondylosis 20 10 — 
			  Trauma to limbs 10 10 — 
		
	
	
		
			  Unknown — — — 
			 Notes: 1. Caseloads are rounded to the nearest 10. Totals may not sum due to rounding. 2. ‘—’ denotes nil or negligible. 3. Where more than one disability is present only the main disabling condition is recorded. 4. Figures show the number of people in receipt of an allowance, and excludes people with entitlement where the payment has been suspended, for example if they are in hospital. 5. ‘Mental health disabilities’ encompass the main disabling conditions ‘learning difficulties’ and ‘mental and behavioural disabilities’. In October 2008 much finer classifications were introduced for new DLA claimants. DWP do not report on these finer classifications as the majority of pre-2008 claims still have the “old codes” on the administrative system. A new code (cognitive disorders—other/ type not known) was introduced within the general classification of “psychiatric disorders”. Claimants allocated to this group are included within “mental health disorders”. 6. “Physical disabilities” encompass all categories not included in “mental health disabilities”, including the main disabling conditions arthritis, muscle/joint/bone disease, blindness, stroke related, epilepsy, deafness, malignant disease, chest disease, back ailments, heart disease, Parkinson's disease, diabetes mellitus, renal disorders, aids, skin disease, frailty, multiple sclerosis. The small number of cases with unknown medical code (see note 7) have been included in “physical disabilities”). 7. The preferred data source for benefit statistics is 100% Work and Pensions Longitudinal Study. However, the 5% sample data are generally the preferred source for analysis on DLA disabling condition as information is more complete. However in this case the WPLS data has been used as some of the caseload figures produced are very small and so would have a high level of statistical variation should the sample data have been used. 8. Parliamentary constituency is based on the Westminster Parliament of May 2010. Source: DWP Information Directorate: Work and Pensions Longitudinal Study (WPLS)

Universal Credit

John McDonnell: To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions pursuant to his oral answer to the hon. Member for Glasgow North East, Official Report, column 478, on universal credit: transitional payments, what estimate he has made of the cost of transitional protection for recipients of the childcare element of working tax credits who continue to qualify for childcare support under the universal credit in each of the first five years.

Chris Grayling: The Government have made a commitment that there will be no cash losers purely as a result of the move to universal credit. At the point of change a comparison will be made between current amount received in tax credits and/or benefits and the household entitlement under universal credit. If the universal credit entitlement is less, and no other circumstances have changed, a cash amount will be paid in order to make up the difference. Details of this protection will be available when policy details have been finalised but we would expect future increases in universal credit entitlement to reduce the need for transitional protection.

Work Capability Assessments

Richard Fuller: To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions what steps he is taking to assist people with mental and behavioural disorders into work.

Chris Grayling: New measures introduced in April 2011 allow Jobcentre Plus to offer more flexible support to people with mental and behavioural difficulties, ensuring provision is tailored to personal and local labour market needs.
	This includes advice and support about maintaining well-being and managing health in preparation for a return to work
	The Work programme is a cross benefit programme that ensures providers are free to innovate and design support that addresses the needs of individuals. Work programme providers are paid more to support harder to help groups into sustained employment, including those claiming employment support allowance.
	In addition, disabled people may be able to access a range of specialist employment provision including Work Choice; Access to Work; Remploy Employment Services and Enterprise Businesses; and Residential Training.
	Jobcentre Pius Disability Employment Advisers offer help with finding and retaining employment. They can refer individuals to specialist programmes including Residential Training and Work Choice and may also use the professional expertise of Work Psychologists specialising in working with disabled people. They can advocate with employers on the individual's behalf and help employers to explore job solutions such as the restructuring of a job's tasks or the environment, or the provision of, or change to equipment.
	Jobcentre Plus Mental Health and Well-being Partnership Managers work with mental health services to ensure an awareness of the services available locally, and to develop the knowledge and confidence of Jobcentre Plus advisers. Advisers also have access to resources such as the mental health adviser toolkit, and the Hidden Impairments toolkit, developed in conjunction with professional experts, charitable organisations and service users.
	As part of the Department for Work and Pensions Health and Work programme, occupational health advice services are available across Great Britain to employers in small businesses who need to support an individual employee to remain in or return to work, and to GPs who require support on patient-specific or general occupational health issues. Also, Fit for Work Services are being piloted across Great Britain to ensure individuals can access case-managed, multidisciplinary support in the early stages of sickness absence to help them back to work as soon as possible and ensure they remain in work.
	The Royal College of Psychiatrists, supported by the Department for Work and Pensions, has produced an online resource providing information and guidance about returning to work after a period of mental ill health to provide support to workers, employers, clinicians, and carers.
	As part of the Department of Health (DH) Improving Access to Psychological Therapies programme, which will be rolled-out across England by March 2015, employment support coordination ensures employment and advice support providers and psychological therapy services work together to help people remain in or return to work when issues arise. In Scotland, support for those with mental health conditions is delivered through the Scottish Centre for Healthy Working Lives, which provides training to employers on developing Mentally Healthy Workplaces. In Wales, the Mental Health in Primary Care Network works to improve awareness of the importance of work to health, making specific reference to mental health and well-being.

COMMUNITIES AND LOCAL GOVERNMENT

British Sky Broadcasting

Luciana Berger: To ask the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government how much his Department has spent on subscriptions to Sky TV since May 2010.

Bob Neill: The Department has had no subscriptions to Sky TV.

Council Tax

Andrew Jones: To ask the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government what the average change in council tax in England was in (a) 2007-08, (b) 2008-09 and (c) 2010-11.

Bob Neill: The change in the average band D council tax in England in 2007-08, 2008-09 and 2010-11 over the previous year's figure was 4.2%, 3.9% and 1.8% respectively.
	This information is available in table 1 of the statistical release “Council tax levels set by local authorities in England—2011-12” that is published on the Department for Communities and Local Government website and can be found at:
	http://www.communities.gov.uk/localgovernment/localregional/localgovernmentfinance/statistics/counciltax/rates/
	This information is collected from the Budget Requirement forms that are completed by all billing and precepting authorities in England.

Council Tax

Caroline Flint: To ask the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government with reference to his Department's consultation on localising support for council tax in England, August 2011, paragraph 11.8, when he plans to publish the technical consultation on the level of grant allocated to local authorities for their local council tax support schemes.

Bob Neill: A separate detailed technical consultation on the specific factors and indicators which should determine the level of grant allocated to a particular authority will take place after the current consultation has closed.

Council Tax

Caroline Flint: To ask the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government with reference to his Department's consultation on localising support for council tax in England, August 2011, paragraph 4.4, how the amount of money given to each local authority to fund local council tax support schemes will be calculated in (a) 2013-14 and (b) subsequent years.

Bob Neill: The Government are currently consulting on the principles for calculating the grant to be given to each local authority to fund local council tax support schemes. A separate detailed technical consultation will subsequently be held on the specific factors and indicators which should determine the level of grant allocated to a particular authority.

Council Tax

Caroline Flint: To ask the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government with reference to his Department's consultation on localising support for council tax in England, August 2011, what proportion of recipients of council tax benefit were of (a) working age and (b) pension age in (i) England and (ii) each local authority area on the most recent date for which figures are available.

Bob Neill: I have today placed in the Library of the House a table that provides the proportion of council tax benefit claimants that were of (a) working age and (b) pension age, by each local authority in England, based on the May 2011 Department for Work and Pensions Single Housing Benefit Extract. England figures show that 62.5% of claimants are of working age, the remaining 37.5% are of pension age.

Council Tax

Caroline Flint: To ask the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government with reference to his Department's consultation on localising support for council tax in England, August 2011, whether he plans to prepare and publish an impact assessment on the localisation of council tax benefit.

Bob Neill: An impact assessment will be published alongside draft legislation providing for the localisation of council tax support in England.

Council Tax

Conor Burns: To ask the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government how much council tax revenue was collected by each local authority in England in the latest period for which figures are available; and how much council tax revenue net of council tax benefit was collected by each local authority in England in that period.

Bob Neill: I have today placed in the Library of the House a table that gives the following information for each local authority in England:
	Total receipts of 2010-11 council tax collected in 2010-11.
	Council tax benefit transferred to Collection Fund in 2010-11.
	Total 2010-11 council tax revenue collected in 2010-11 (in year receipts plus council tax benefit transferred to the collection fund).

Council Tax: Green Deal Scheme

Zac Goldsmith: To ask the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government if he will bring forward proposals for a one-month council tax payment holiday for households that are participating in the Green Deal.

Bob Neill: Local authorities have the discretion provided by section 13A of the Local Government Finance Act 1992 to grant council tax discounts as they see fit.

Council Tax: Halifax

Linda Riordan: To ask the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government how many properties in Halifax constituency have been moved into an (a) higher and (b) lower council tax band since May 2010; and what the average (i) increase and (ii) decrease was in the last financial year.

Bob Neill: As at 30 June 2011 there were 45,274 domestic properties in the Halifax constituency and in the period from 1 April 2010 to 30 June 2011 there were (i) 42 properties that moved into a higher council tax band and (ii) 234 properties which moved into a lower council tax band. Official statistics are published by Valuation Office Agency on an annual or quarterly basis only.
	In the financial year 2010-11 the modal (average) increase was from band B to C and the modal decrease was from band B to A.

Departmental Advertising

Gavin Williamson: To ask the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government how much his Department has spent on (a) television, (b) radio and (c) newspaper advertising in (i) real and (ii) nominal terms between June 2007 and May 2010; and what the total cost to the public purse was.

Bob Neill: The Department purchases its advertising space through the Central Office of Information. Their figures, excluding VAT and recorded on a financial year basis, are as follows:
	
		
			 £ 
			  TV advertising Radio advertising Press advertising Total 
			 Nominal terms     
			 2007-08 1,188,232 388,369 3,116,567 4,693,168 
			 2008-09 1,989,840 1,438,538 2,898,805 6,327,183 
			 2009-10 1,677,935 847,463 1,860,579 4,385,977 
			      
			 Real terms(1)     
			 2007-08 1,240,992 405,613 3,254,949 4,901,555 
			 2008-09 2,022,239 1,461,961 2,946,004 6,430,204 
			 2009-10 1,677,935 847,463 1,860,579 4,385,977 
			 (1 )Using GDP deflators as published 28 June 2011 by HM Treasury, using 2009-10 as the base year. 
		
	
	The figures for press advertising include magazines as well as newspapers, due to the mechanism Central Office of Information employ to record financial data.

Departmental Air Travel

John Mann: To ask the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government on what occasions he has flown on official business (a) by budget airline and (b) in economy class in the last 12 months.

Bob Neill: I refer the hon. Member to my answer of 22 June 2011, Official Report, columns 288-89W; this was business class given the distance travelled. The Secretary of State has undertaken no other flights on official business.

Departmental Lost Property

Angus MacNeil: To ask the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government what property has been (a) lost and (b) stolen from his Department in the last 12 months; and what the cost of replacement was.

Bob Neill: In the last 12 months the following departmental items have been (a) lost and (b) stolen.
	
		
			 Item Lost Stolen Replacement value (£) 
			 Laptop 1 10 16,500 
			 BlackBerry 2 8 700 
			 Camera 0 1 250 
			 Laptop log-on key 1 1 180 
			 BlackBerry charger 0 2 40 
		
	
	The laptops were encrypted. The unit cost of the laptops incorporate a series of encryption and security measures, and associated licence, set-up and support costs.

Departmental Procurement

Julian Smith: To ask the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government what proportion of procurement contracts offered by his Department have been advertised on the Contracts Finder website since the website's inception.

Bob Neill: The Department has published all contracts with a value of greater than £20,000 on the Contracts Finder website since the website's inception. This is 50% of the total number of contracts with a value of greater than £10,000. The Department is currently in the process of updating the website with all such contracts.

Departmental Rail Travel

Gavin Williamson: To ask the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government what the cost to the public purse was for (a) first class and (b) all train travel by (i) Ministers, (ii) staff and (iii) special advisers in his Department between June 2007 and May 2010.

Bob Neill: Information on the cost of rail travel was not held centrally before April 2009 and could be provided only at disproportionate cost.
	In 2009-10 the Department spent £199,516 on first class rail travel and £689,348 on standard rail travel and in April and May 2010 the Department spent £18,372 on first class rail travel and £79,069 on standard rail travel.
	The breakdown between Ministers, special advisers and staff could be obtained only at disproportionate cost.

Departmental Travel

Charlie Elphicke: To ask the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government how many civil servants in his Department are provided with travel cards funded by his Department.

Bob Neill: The Department for Communities and Local Government does not have any civil servants provided with travel cards funded directly by the Department. However, the Department does allow staff to take out a loan for season ticket costs and pay it back over a maximum period of 12 months. As of July 2011, there were a total of 488 civil servants making repayments on a season ticket loan.

Departmental Work Experience

Bridget Phillipson: To ask the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government how many (a) persons undertaking unpaid work experience, (b) unpaid interns and (c) other persons in unpaid positions were working in his Department as of 1 July 2011.

Bob Neill: The Department for Communities and Local Government had (a) no people undertaking work experience, (b) no unpaid interns, and (c) no other persons in unpaid positions working in the Department as of 1 July 2011, however the Department did have three Youth Council volunteers working in the Department, and all three of them finished on 30 June 2011. Additionally, six people joined the Department in July for two weeks work experience, however all of them started after 1 July 2011.

Disability Aids

Graeme Morrice: To ask the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government what discussions he has had with the Secretary of State for Health about the funding of communication aids and assistive technology specifically for people with profound and multiple learning disabilities; and if he will make a statement.

Andrew Stunell: Ministers within the Department for Communities and Local Government regularly meet colleagues from other Departments to discuss a range of matters.
	It is the responsibility of local social care services to determine who is responsible for the provision and repair of communication aids and assistive technology.
	The Vision on Adult Social Care, Capable Communities and Active Citizens is clear that “councils should commission a full range of appropriate preventative and early intervention services such as re-ablement and telecare, working in partnership with the NHS, housing authorities and others”.
	Generally, councils may supply equipment costing up to £1,000 free of charge but in some circumstances may make direct payments to purchase equipment or adaptations themselves.
	DCLG provides funding for the Disabled Facilities Grant, a mandatory entitlement administered by local housing authorities. It helps to fund the provision of adaptations that enable disabled people to live as comfortably and independently as possible in their homes. It can be used to adapt heating or lighting controls to make them easier to use.

Disability Facilities Grant

Henry Smith: To ask the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government when the review of the effectiveness of administration of the disability facilities grant will be concluded.

Andrew Stunell: There is currently no review into the effectiveness of administration of the Disabled Facilities Grant. However, the recently published report by the Commission on the Funding of Care and Support recommends reviewing the operation and administration of the Disabled Facilities Grant. The Government welcome this report and will be reviewing the recommendations with the care sector over the autumn. Following this engagement, we will publish a White Paper on social care reform in the spring next year, as well as a progress report on funding reform.

Fire Services

Gavin Williamson: To ask the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government what legal advice he received on the abolition of the regional fire control centres.

Bob Neill: I would refer my hon. Friend to the National Audit Office report of 1 July 2011, HC 1272, on the Failure of the FiReControl project which sets out the specialist commercial legal advice received.

Fire Services

Gavin Williamson: To ask the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government what process his Department followed in making decisions on the reconfiguration of regional fire control centres.

Bob Neill: Following the termination of the FiReControl project we consulted the fire and rescue community on the future of control services and, at the same time, invited Fire and Rescue Services to discuss with us how they might use the buildings. The London Fire and Emergency Planning Authority took on the lease for the building in London in March this year and are planning to move their control room later this year. We are in discussion with a number of Fire and Rescue Authorities who are interested in taking on other buildings; where there is no interest the buildings are being marketed more widely, including to other emergency services. This approach is building improved control room resilience through local solutions, not imposing a solution from central Government.

Government Procurement Card

Charlie Elphicke: To ask the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government what the (a) date of purchase, (b) amount, (c) supplier and (d) level 3 or enhanced transaction entry was of each transaction undertaken by the Local Government Ombudsman using the Government Procurement Card in (i) 2007-08, (ii) 2008-09 and (iii) 2009-10.

Bob Neill: A table providing a breakdown of expenditure by the Local Government Ombudsman using Government Procurement Cards for 2008-09 and 2009-10 has been placed in the Library of the House. This includes (a) date of purchase, (b) amount, (c)supplier and (d) level 3 or enhanced transaction details. Each transaction has an expenditure type which is a broad description of the type of goods purchased.
	The data cover the periods 1 December 2008 when the Local Government Ombudsman started using Government Procurement cards to 31 March 2009; and 1 April 2009 to 31 March 2010.

Government Procurement Card

Charlie Elphicke: To ask the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government what the (a) date of purchase, (b) amount, (c) supplier and (d) level 3 or enhanced transaction entry was of each transaction undertaken by the Infrastructure Planning Commission using the Government Procurement Card since its establishment.

Bob Neill: A table detailing the available information on expenditure incurred by the Infrastructure Planning Commission through use of the Government Procurement Card since their inception on 1 October 2009 through to 22 July 2011 has been placed in the Library of the House
	My Department is committed to greater transparency over the use of the Government Procurement Card than under the last Administration, and has strengthened checks and balances to ensure protection of taxpayers' money.

Government Procurement Card

Charlie Elphicke: To ask the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government what the (a) date of purchase, (b) amount, (c) supplier and (d) level 3 or enhanced transaction entry was of each transaction undertaken by the London Thames Gateway Development Corporation using the Government Procurement Card in (i) 2007-08, (ii) 2008-09 and (iii) 2009-10.

Bob Neill: The London Thames Gateway Development Corporation does not use the Government Procurement Card.

Government Procurement Card

Charlie Elphicke: To ask the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government what the (a) date of purchase, (b) amount, (c) supplier and (d) level 3 or enhanced transaction entry was of each transaction undertaken by the Valuation Tribunal Service using the Government Procurement Card in (i) 2007-08, (ii) 2008-09 and (iii) 2009-10.

Grant Shapps: Purchases using the Government Procurement Card for the Valuation Tribunal Service covering the financial years of 2007-08, 2008-09 and 2009-10 are listed in an Excel spreadsheet which has been placed in the Library of the House.
	The figures in brackets show the number of persons involved in those particular expenditures.
	My Department is committed to greater transparency over the use of the Government Procurement Card than under the last Administration, and has strengthened checks and balances to ensure protection of taxpayers' money.

Hotels

Gavin Williamson: To ask the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government what the cost to the public purse was of (a) four star, (b) five star and (c) other hotel accommodation for (i) staff, (ii) Ministers and (iii) special advisers in his Department between June 2007 and May 2010.

Bob Neill: Information on hotel expenditure is not held centrally prior to April 2009 and could be supplied only at disproportionate cost. In the financial year 2009-10 the Department spent £498,471 on hotel accommodation and in April and May 2010 the Department spent £56,662 on hotel accommodation.
	Unfortunately this cannot be broken down by hotel rating. The breakdown between Ministers, special advisers and staff could be obtained only at disproportionate cost.
	As part of my transparency initiative, spending over £500 since 2008-09 is available for scrutiny on my Department's website.

Housing: Licensing

Graham Jones: To ask the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government how many selective licensing areas were in existence in the latest period for which figures are available; what their (a) name, (b) location, (c) relevant local authority and (d) date of establishment is in each such case; how many houses are included in each such area; and what proportion of those houses are owned by private landlords.

Andrew Stunell: 19 selective licensing designations in 14 local authority areas were granted approval by the Department before the general consent for selective licensing schemes was introduced on 1 April 2010. These were as follows:
	
		
			 Local authority Designation Commencement 
			 Salford City Council Seedley and Langworthy 25 May 2007 
			  Broughton Ward 2 November 2009 
			 Middlesbrough Council Gresham & Middlehaven ward 5 June 2007 
			 Manchester City Council Moston 3 August 2007 
			  Bradford ward 3 August 2007 
			  Gorton Ward 2 November 2007 
			 Gateshead Council Sunderland road 25 September 2007 
			  Chopwell 11 January 2010 
			 Sedgefield Council Dean Bank & Chilton West 7 February 2008 
			 Burnley Council Trinity Ward 22 October 2008 
			 Bolton Council Tonge with the Haulgh ward 10 November 2008 
			 Blackburn Council Infirmary area 17 February 2009 
			  Central Darwen 1 June 2009 
			 Leeds City Council East End/Cross Green 1 October 2009 
			 Easington Council Wembley 10 February 2009 
		
	
	
		
			 Hartlepool Council One designation including Bum Valley, Dyke House, Foggy Furze, Grange and Stranton wards 1 May 2009 
			 LB of Newham Little Ilford 1 March 2010 
			 Sunderland City Council Hendon 1 July 2010 
			 Hyndburn Council Accrington & Church n/a 
		
	
	Information on the number of properties within each designation, and the proportion of these that are privately rented is held by each individual local authority.

Housing: Licensing

Graham Jones: To ask the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government which applications by local authorities for selective licensing areas have been rejected since 2006; and what the reasons were in each such case.

Andrew Stunell: Prior to the general consent for selective licensing schemes that came into force on 1 April 2010, no local authority applications for selective licensing schemes were rejected by the Department.

Land

Andrew Jones: To ask the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government what guidance he has provided to local authorities on the procedures for disposing of surplus land.

Bob Neill: Guidance on the disposal of local authority land under the Local Government Act 1972 is given in ODPM Circular 06/2003, the "General Disposal Consent (England) 2003, disposal of land for less than best consideration that can reasonably be obtained":
	http://www.communities.gov.uk/publications/planningandbuilding/circularlocalgovernment
	Guidance on the disposal of local authority land held under Housing Acts is given in the “General Housing Consents 2005”, (for section 32 of the Housing Act 1985):
	http://www.communities.gov.uk/publications/housing/generalhousing?view=Standard
	and in the "General Consents 20l0", (for section 25 of the Local Government Act 1988):
	http://www.communities.gov.uk/publications/housing/consentsprivatelets?view=Standard
	The following consultation was launched on 25 August seeking views on simplifying the legislation that governs the disposal of council housing assets and how the receipts should be used:
	http://www.info4local.gov.uk/documents/consultations/1972625

Local Government Finance

Caroline Flint: To ask the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government pursuant to the oral statement of 18 July 2011, Official Report, columns 662-64, on local government finance, what modelling his Department has carried out on the likely change to each local authority budget that will occur in each of the next five years under his proposed scheme for localisation of business rates.

Bob Neill: The impact of the Government's proposals to allow local retention of business rates will depend on a range of factors, including future business rates growth at the local level, the behavioural response to the changes, and the design of the scheme that is introduced. The Government have sought views on its proposals and, on 19 August, published an interactive calculator that enables councils to make estimates of the main variables for their area, and to see the comparative impact of different approaches to scheme design. This will help to inform their responses to the consultation, as well as future decisions by the Government.

Local Government Finance

Caroline Flint: To ask the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government 
	(1)  pursuant to his contribution following the oral statement of 18 July 2011, Official Report, column 666W, on local government finance, what the evidential basis is for his statement that Doncaster would do better under his proposed scheme for localisation of business rates than it had under the existing funding system for the last five years;
	(2)  pursuant to his contribution following the oral statement of 18 July 2011, Official Report, column 670W, on local government finance, what the evidential basis is for the statement that Liverpool would benefit the most under his proposed scheme for localisation of business rates.

Bob Neill: The average growth in business rates per billing authority in England between 2005-06 and 2009-10 was 5%. For Liverpool, average growth over that period was 8.2%. In the same period, growth in Doncaster was 6%. Subsequent to the oral statement of 18 July 2011, Official Report, columns 662-677, further information on the outturn amount of national non-domestic rates collected by local authorities and the associated amount of relief they granted has been published and is available at:
	http://www.communities.gov.uk/localgovernment/localregional/localgovernmentfinance/statistics/nondomesticrates/outturn/

Local Government: Debts

Conor Burns: To ask the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government what information he holds on the annual debt interest paid by each local authority in England in (a) 2009-10, (b) 2010-11 and (c) 2011-12.

Bob Neill: I have today placed in the Library of the House a table that gives information on interest payable and similar charges for each local authority in England for 2009-10 (final outturn), 2010-11 (provisional outturn) and 2011-12 (budget estimates).

Mass Media

Gavin Williamson: To ask the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government what the cost to the public purse was of his Department's national media coverage evaluations in each month between June 2007 and May 2010.

Bob Neill: The Department did not conduct, or commit funds to, any formal ongoing analysis or evaluation of national media coverage during this period.
	The Department did have a contract throughout this period with an external supplier to provide a daily national press cuttings service.
	Costs for this service totalled £312,759.66 for the period from April 2008 to May
	2010, broken down as:
	
		
			  £ 
			 April 2008 to March 2009 165,617.50 
			 April 2009 to March 2010 131,315.15 
			 April 2010 to May 2010 15,827.01 
		
	
	Data for the preceding period could be provided only at disproportionate cost.
	I refer my hon. Friend to my answer of 7 December 2010, Official Report , column 178W, to my hon. Friend the Member for Harlow (Robert Halfon) on the steps the new administration have taken to reduce spending in this area.

Metals: Theft

Bridget Phillipson: To ask the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government what information he holds on the cost of metal theft to local authorities in each of the last six years.

Bob Neill: The information requested is not held centrally.

Minister for Cities

Zac Goldsmith: To ask the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government what ministerial responsibilities the Minister for Cities has in relation to London.

Greg Clark: As Minister for Cities I will champion the economic, social and environmental role of cities including London and support them in seizing the opportunities to create growth and prosperity across the country. London is clearly our largest city in terms of its population and its economy—but it also has different issues and a very different governance settlement from other cities. Therefore I will initially focus on the core cities and their surrounding areas. The core cities represent the eight largest cities outside of London (based on the population of the Primary Urban Area): Birmingham, Bristol, Leeds, Liverpool, Manchester, Newcastle, Nottingham, and Sheffield.

Non-domestic Rates

Michael Dugher: To ask the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government 
	(1)  if he will estimate the likely difference in business rates revenues between local authorities with the (a) highest and (b) lowest funding growth one year after the implementation of his proposed changes to local business rates;
	(2)  what estimate he has made of the likely change in the level of revenue for (a) Surrey county council, (b) Bury council and (c) Barnsley council as a result of his proposed changes to local business rates.

Bob Neill: The Secretary of State set out proposals to allow local retention of business rates in his oral statement to the House on 18 July 2011, Official Report, column 662-677. The Government's proposals will ensure a stable starting point, so that no local authority will be worse off as a result of its business rates base at the outset of the new system.
	The impact of the Government's proposals will depend on a range of factors, including future business rates growth at the local level, the behavioural response to the changes, and the final design of the scheme following consultation. The Government have sought views on its proposals and, on 19 August, published eight technical papers which provide further details on the proposals, together with an interactive calculator. The calculator enables users to explore the possible effects of certain scheme design options based upon their own assumptions about local circumstances.
	The proposals incorporate a range of protections to ensure councils can meet local needs, including a safety net for places in need of additional support, funded by a levy recovering a share of disproportionate gain.

Non-domestic Rates

Michael Dugher: To ask the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government what assessment he has made of the potential effects of his proposed changes to local business rates on equality of financial resources between local authorities.

Bob Neill: The Government published their proposals for business rate retention in ‘Local Government Resource Review: Proposals for Business Rates Retention’ on 18 July 2011. This paper was supplemented by the publication on 19 August 2011 of a set of technical papers which provide more detail on the proposals.
	The proposed system of tariffs and top ups will ensure a stable starting point, so that no council is worse off as a result of its business rates base at the outset of the scheme. From that point on, councils will keep a share of business rates increases, providing a strong incentive for them to promote growth. The consultation paper proposes a range of protections to ensure that councils can meet local needs, including a safety net for places in need of additional support, funded by a levy recovering a share of disproportionate gain.
	At the same time as publishing the technical papers, the Government also made available an interactive calculator which enables users to explore the principal features of the proposed business rates retention scheme by entering their own inputs and varying components.

Non-domestic Rates

Michael Dugher: To ask the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government whether he has consulted poorer local authorities on his proposed changes to local business rates; and what the outcome was of any such consultation.

Bob Neill: In developing proposals for changes to business rates, the Local Government Resource Review engaged with a number of key partners, including local government representative bodies such as the Local Government Association, the Special Interest Group of Municipal Authorities (SIGOMA), and London councils.
	The proposals are set out in the consultation document “Local Government Resource Review: Proposals for Business Rates retention” which was published on 18 July 2011, and in eight technical papers published, along with an interactive calculator, on 19 August 2011. The consultation seeks views from across local government and the business community by 24 October.

Non-domestic Rates

Michael Dugher: To ask the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government what assessment he has made of the time which will be required to implement his proposed changes to local business rates in order to ensure that the model delivered is sustainable.

Bob Neill: The Government published proposals for business rate retention in: “Local Government Resource Review: Proposals for Business Rates retention” on 18 July 2011. Subject to the responses to that consultation, the Government intend to bring forward legislation later in this Session with a view to introducing business rates retention from April 2013.

Non-domestic Rates

Michael Dugher: To ask the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government (a) how many and what types of local businesses and (b) which local authorities he has consulted on his proposed changes to local business rates.

Bob Neill: I refer the hon. Member to the answer I gave the hon. Member for Liverpool, Wavertree (Luciana Berger) on 12 May 2011, Official Report, column 1322W.
	The Government published their proposals for business rate retention in: “Local Government Resource Review: Proposals for Business Rate Retention” on 18 July, seeking views by 24 October. We are keen to encourage responses from all interested parties, including local government and the business community.

Non-domestic Rates

Michael Dugher: To ask the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government how he plans to maintain the ability of poorer local authorities to deliver services according to needs when implementing his proposed changes to business rates.

Bob Neill: The Government published proposals for business rate retention: “Local Government Resource Review: Proposals for Business Rate retention” on 18 July 2011, seeking responses by 24 October 2011.
	The proposed system of tariffs and top ups will ensure a stable starting point, so that no council is worse off as a result of its business rates base at the outset of the scheme. From that point on, councils will keep a share of business rates increases, providing a strong incentive for them to promote growth. The consultation paper proposes a range of protections to ensure that councils can meet local needs, including a safety net for places in need of additional support, funded by a levy recovering a share of disproportionate gain.

Non-domestic Rates

Michael Dugher: To ask the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government what assessment he has made of the potential change in the total resources available to local authorities resulting from his proposed changes to local business rates.

Bob Neill: The total resource available to local authorities was set out in the spending review 2011-12 and is set for four years until 2014-15. The Government do not propose any change to these resources during the remainder of the spending review period. If, following the introduction of the scheme, business rate growth is achieved above forecast levels, the benefit of this will sit with local authorities.

Non-domestic Rates

Caroline Flint: To ask the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government 
	(1)  with reference to his Department's consultation on proposals for business rates retention, July 2011, paragraph 3.25, what share of disproportionate financial gains would be recouped by his Department under his proposals;
	(2)  with reference to his Department's consultation on proposals for business rates retention, July 2011, paragraph 3.25, what definition his Department plans to use of disproportionate financial gains.

Bob Neill: As set out in the consultation paper “Local Government Resource Review: Proposals for Business Rates Retention”, published on 18 July, the Government proposes to collect a levy recouping a share of disproportionate benefit and use the proceeds to fund a safety net to help manage large, unforeseen negative volatility in individual authorities' budgets.
	The main consultation paper seeks views on a number of options for setting the levy, which are discussed in further detail in “Technical Paper 5: Tariffs, Top-up and Levy Options”, published on 19 August and can be found at:
	http://www.communities.gov.uk/localgovernment/localgovernmentfinance/lgresourcereview/
	The Government are seeking responses by 24 October.

Non-domestic Rates

Caroline Flint: To ask the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government with reference to his Department's consultation on proposals for business rates retention, July 2011, paragraphs 4.8 to 4.10, how business rates revenues collected through the central list will be distributed.

Bob Neill: Business rates revenues from the central list will form part of the forecast national business rates. The Government set out details of their proposals, including how they propose to derive individual authorities' business rates baselines from the forecast national business rates, in a series of Technical Papers published on 19 August 2011.

Non-domestic Rates

Austin Mitchell: To ask the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government whether he has considered changing the non-domestic rating legislation to ensure that large retrospective rate demands cannot be levied on newly-rated companies.

Bob Neill: The Government published a consultation paper on business rates retention on 18 July 2011 and a further eight technical papers, which provide more details of the Government's proposals, on 19 August.
	Technical Paper 6 - Volatility, seeks views on the issue of backdated rating assessments in the context of the Government's proposals for change. The papers can be found at:
	http://www.communities.gov.uk/publications/localgovernment/resourcereviewbusinessrates
	and the consultation remains open until 24 October 2011.

Non-domestic Rates: Sunderland

Sharon Hodgson: To ask the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government how much Sunderland has (a) contributed to and (b) drawn from the national non-domestic rating pool in the last five financial years.

Bob Neill: The following table gives details of how much Sunderland city council has (a) contributed to and (b) received from the national non-domestic rating pool in the period 2006-07 to 2010-11.
	
		
			 £ million 
			  Non-domestic rates paid into the pool Redistributed non-domestic rates received 
			 2006-07 65.8 116.6 
			 2007-08 70.2 121.0 
			 2008-09 72.8 132.9 
			 2009-10 76.1 125.6 
			 2010-11 73.1 137.5 
		
	
	The data in respect of non-domestic rates paid into the pool are taken from the annual audited national non-domestic rates (NNDR3) returns submitted by Sunderland city council.
	The data in respect of redistributed non-domestic rates received by Sunderland city council are taken from the annual local government finance settlement.
	On 18 July, the Government published proposals to allow the local retention of business rates. The Government's proposals will ensure a stable starting point, so that no local authority will be worse off as a result of its business rates base at the outset of the new system. The consultation paper proposes a range of protections to ensure that councils can meet local needs, including a safety net for places in need of additional support, funded by a levy recovering a share of disproportionate gain.
	There is no basis for the suggestion made by the hon. Member in her local media that Sunderland city council “will lose up to £58 million”. That is simply wrong.

Office of Government Commerce

Owen Smith: To ask the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government whether his Department has issued guidance to local authorities requiring them to implement the Office of Government Commerce Procurement Policy Note - Information Note 09/09.

Bob Neill: The Department for Communities and Local Government has not issued guidance to local authorities requiring them to implement the Office of Government Commerce Procurement Policy Note - Information Note 09/09.
	Such Policy Procurement Notices are sent out widely throughout the public sector by Cabinet Office, including to local authorities.

Planning: Methane

Zac Goldsmith: To ask the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government what recent progress he has made in reforming the planning system to support the injection of biomethane into the national gas grid.

Bob Neill: The Government are reforming the planning system to ensure that the sustainable development needed to support economic growth is able to proceed as easily as possible. This embraces a range of measures which should make it easier to obtain planning permission for appropriately sited anaerobic digestion plants.
	Anaerobic digestion plants are a maximum 8 MW, so these are all local planning decisions governed by the planning framework and guidance. We consider that local authorities are best placed to manage the waste management needs for their area; and to best deliver workable renewable energy. Through our proposals for reforming the planning system we are creating the right framework to facilitate a significant increase in the amount of energy from waste through anaerobic digestion. Our reforms sit alongside the Anaerobic Digestion Strategy and Action Plan, published by DEFRA in June 2011, where the Government are making £10 million available to promote use of anaerobic digestion (food waste).
	DCLG facilitate a forum/hold regular meetings to discuss and understand planning reform as they affect anaerobic digestion. Following the recent publication of the draft National Planning Policy Framework, work is ongoing to consider links between the planning system and its support for injection of biomethane into the national gas grid.

Private Rented Housing

Jonathan Evans: To ask the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government what steps he is taking to stimulate investment by third-party insurance and pension funds in the private rented housing sector; and if he will make a statement.

Andrew Stunell: The changes to Stamp Duty Land Tax on bulk purchases which the Government announced in the 2011 Budget should help larger-scale investors, including landlords and property management companies, to take on larger portfolios. The commitment to look again at the rules on Real Estate Investment Trusts in time for next year’s Budget should also offer encouragement to investors in the sector.
	More broadly, the Government are committed to supporting homeownership but we also recognise that a strong private rental sector is required to provide a flexible alternative. We want to ensure the housing market is stable and responds to demand.
	Achieving this depends above all on the return to economic and financial stability which the Government are seeking to achieve through debt reduction and its commitment to abolish the structural deficit. This will help to keep interest rates low, improve credit availability and free up lending.

Travellers: Caravan Sites

Caroline Lucas: To ask the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government pursuant to the answer of 6 July 2011, Official Report, column 1235W, on Travellers: caravan sites, what consideration his Department gave to including a reference to the proposed duty to co-operate in the main body of the Planning for Traveller Sites consultation document of 13 April 2011.

Bob Neill: holding answer 5 September 2011
	The consultation on the Government's draft planning policy for traveller sites ended on 3 August. The Government are considering the responses and intend to publish their new policy as soon as possible.
	The Government are consulting on their draft ‘National Planning Policy Framework’ until 17 October. Planning policy on traveller sites will eventually be incorporated into the framework.
	We are introducing a duty to cooperate through the Localism Bill. This will require local councils, county councils and other public bodies to engage constructively, actively and on an ongoing basis in the planning process. As part of the Government's consultation on the draft Framework, we welcome views from Members on whether the policies for planning strategically across local boundaries, including the duty to co-operate, provide a clear framework and enough flexibility for councils and other bodies to work together effectively.

Warwickshire County Council

Chris White: To ask the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government what funding his Department provided to Warwickshire county council in each year since 2005.

Bob Neill: The total grant funding allocated by the Department of. Communities and Local Government to Warwickshire county council is as follows:
	
		
			 Warwickshire 
			  £000 
			 2005-06 333,071 
			 2006-07 95,032 
			 2007-08 97,093 
			 2008-09 129,340 
			 2009-10 126,157 
			 2010-11 130,388 
		
	
	The definition of central Government grant used here is the sum of:
	formula grant (revenue support grant and redistributed non-domestic rates)
	specific grants inside Aggregate External Finance (i.e. revenue grants paid for council's core services) (only includes grants from this Department)
	specific grants outside Aggregate External Finance (only includes grants from this Department)
	Area Based Grant (from 2008-09), and
	‘other grants’ provided by all Government Departments.
	These figures are taken from revenue outturn forms provided by authorities after the end of a financial year. Figures for formula grant, Area Based Grant and other grants are aggregated grants for all Government Departments. The 2010-11 figures are currently provisional and could be subject to change. Finalised 2010-11 figures will be released in November 2011.
	Comparison across years may not be valid owing to changing local authority responsibilities and changes to funding methodology (in particular, the 2005-06 figure includes education funding, which was removed from formula grant in later years).

Written Questions: Government Responses

Gavin Williamson: To ask the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government when he plans to respond to the Questions 67689 and 67706, on the Planning Inspectorate, tabled on 14 July 2011 for answer on 19 July 2011.

Bob Neill: Question 67706 was answered on 20 July 2011. Question 67689 was answered on 5 September 2011.

ENERGY AND CLIMATE CHANGE

Biofuels

Zac Goldsmith: To ask the Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change what recent progress he has made in reforming the regulatory framework to support the injection of biomethane into the national gas grid.

Charles Hendry: In March this year we announced details of the Renewable Heat Incentive, including long term tariff support for bio-methane connecting to the gas network. In the same month Ofgem published its decision on the strategy for the next transmission and gas distribution price controls RIIO (Revenue = Incentives + Innovation + Outputs).
	This contained a number of measures to support biomethane injection into the gas grid:
	1. incentives in the financial framework for gas network companies to ensure that they do not incur additional costs for connecting biomethane to the grid, this will ensure network companies do not have a disincentive to connecting biomethane;
	2. obligations on the network companies to develop information provisions for connectees on how biomethane producers can connect to the grid. This is in the process of being drafted into the Gas Transporter licence;
	3. a requirement that gas networks companies need to introduce voluntary standards of service for biomethane customers connecting to the grid;
	4. £140 million under the Network Innovation Competition to trial new technologies like biomethane on the grid, plus a further 0.5 to 1% of each GDN's allowed revenue is allocated to innovation funding.
	Further information can be found in Ofgem's 27 July factsheet on biomethane:
	http://www.ofgem.gov.uk/Media/FactSheets/Documents1/biomethanearenewablegassourceFS.pdf
	My officials are working with National Grid (NG) and Ofgem to determine whether propane should be added to biomethane before injection into the grid, with a view to finding the most supportive solution for biomethane producers consistent with maintaining necessary gas quality standards.

Biofuels

Zac Goldsmith: To ask the Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change what recent assessment he has made of the merits of a gas licence exemption for onshore gas production for the purposes of making it easier to inject biomethane from an anaerobic digestion plant into the gas grid.

Charles Hendry: The Government are working with range of delivery partners to consider whether it is appropriate to amend regulations which currently apply to biogas injection from anaerobic digestion plant, with the purpose of making injection easier.
	In addition the Health and Safety Executive is working with network companies to assess whether the maximum permissible levels of oxygen and contaminant matter in grid gas can be safely increased to reduce the costs of cleaning biogas for injection.
	DECC is considering the case for further reducing potential regulatory burdens by providing a gas licence exemption for those, including AD plant, who produce gas onshore and expects to publish a consultation in due course.

British Coal Utilisation Research Association

Martin Horwood: To ask the Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change which public authority holds the company, operational and insurance records of the British Coal Utilisation Research Association, a subsidiary of the British Coal Corporation; and where these records are now located.

Charles Hendry: The British Coal Utilisation Research Association (BCURA) became a wholly owned subsidiary of British Coal in 1969. British Coal was a very large company with records spread over numerous sites. Over the course of time many of those records were lost or destroyed. Those that remain that are under the Department's control, including the remaining BCURA records relating to the period while it was in British Coal ownership, are held by the Departments records management contractor, Iron Mountain, at their facility in Stafford.
	As for the period after BCURA left the ownership of British Coal, BCURA are responsible for those records and the question should be directed to BCURA for that period and for any documents transferred to them at that time. However we are also aware that the Coal Research Establishment (CRE) deposited a number of records outside the British Coal archive system. We do not know the nature and extent of those deposits. One potential source of further enquiries is with the North of England Institute of Mining and Mechanical Engineers in Newcastle-upon-Tyne. A review of that Institute's annual report for 2008-09 indicates that at least some CRE/BCURA records/libraries are held by them. The National Archives also hold some documents related to BCURA.

Carbon Emissions

Huw Irranca-Davies: To ask the Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change when he expects to receive notification of whether his plans for an Emissions Performance Standard comply with EU law.

Gregory Barker: We will consider the compatibility of the EPS with EU law as we develop the proposals and will discuss them with the Commission as appropriate. There is no requirement to obtain clearance from the Commission before proceeding with the EPS.

Carbon Emissions

Huw Irranca-Davies: To ask the Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change whether the level at which the Emissions Performance Standard will be set will vary across different parts of the UK.

Gregory Barker: The Government's position is that the framework of the Emissions Performance Standard regime should, as far as possible, cover the whole of the UK and is working closely with the Devolved Administrations in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland to achieve this in a way which takes appropriate account of their policy preferences, existing market arrangements and respective devolution settlements.

Carbon Emissions

Huw Irranca-Davies: To ask the Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change when he plans to publish details of the Emissions Performance Standards specific exemptions for plant (a) forming part of the UK's Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS) Demonstration Programme and (b) benefiting from European funding for commercial-scale CCS projects.

Charles Hendry: The Government confirmed in the Electricity Market Reform White Paper published on 12 July 2011 that exemptions to the EPS will apply to plant forming part of the UK Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS) Demonstration Programme, or benefiting from European funding for commercial scale CCS. We are considering the options on how to implement an exemption and will be discussing the detailed design with stakeholders over the coming months to help us prepare for legislation.

Climate Change: Finance

Luciana Berger: To ask the Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change what proportion of the disbursement of climate finance due to be complete by April 2015 has been disbursed to date; and how much such funding has been disbursed.

Gregory Barker: As of November 2010, the UK Government have approved a total of £568 million in 2010-11 towards their commitment of £1.5 billion in Fast Start finance over 2010-12. This is over one third of our total and we are on track to meet our commitment.
	An updated figure will be provided on the Fast Start finance website at:
	http://www.faststartfinance.org/content/contributing-countries
	in advance of Durban.
	The Government have £2.9 billion to spend on international climate finance over the spending review period 2011-12 to 2014-15.

Combined Heat and Power: Carbon Emissions

Huw Irranca-Davies: To ask the Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change whether he plans to bring forward proposals to prevent the Emissions Performance Standard from creating disincentives to investment in combined heat and power.

Gregory Barker: The Government remain committed to supporting the development of good quality combined heat and power. We will therefore give careful consideration to the treatment of CHP under the Emissions Performance Standard. We will be discussing the detailed design of the instrument with stakeholders over the coming months to help us prepare for legislation to ensure we avoid structuring it in a way which could act as a disincentive to investment in CHP.

Departmental Manpower

Huw Irranca-Davies: To ask the Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change what staffing he plans to provide for his Department's new office to promote national energy efficiency.

Gregory Barker: Under current plans, the Energy Efficiency Deployment Office will comprise up to 50 civil servant posts in 2011-12.

Departmental Procurement

Owen Smith: To ask the Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change what methodology (a) his Department and (b) the non-departmental public bodies for which he is responsible used to estimate savings to the public purse made in respect of its procurement and purchasing since May 2010.

Gregory Barker: On 15 November 2010, Official Report, columns 615-16W, the Chief Secretary to the Treasury, the right hon. Member for Inverness, Nairn, Badenoch and Strathspey (Danny Alexander), said in response to PQ16752 that the Government had announced a more specific and innovative approach to efficiency and reform across the public sector, including:
	a reduction in administration budgets of 34% across the whole of Whitehall and its arm's length bodies saving £5.9 billion a year by 2014-15;
	radically reducing the number of arm's length bodies across Government; and
	the Efficiency and Reform Group's tough new efficiency regime which will drive savings in procurement, major projects and estate management;
	and that, in result, Departments would no longer be required to report against the previous Government's failed efficiency target.
	In August 2011, the Minister for the Cabinet Office and Paymaster General, the right hon. Member for Horsham (Mr Maude), announced that the Efficiency and Reform Group's new measures had saved £3.75 billion over 2010-11.
	This impact was assessed using methodologies shown at Annex A. The assessment has been independently verified by Government auditors who found the benefits assertions to be fairly calculated and presented.
	These savings are borne out in Department accounts. Note 12 of the Department of Energy and Climate Change's (DECC's) Report and Accounts 2010-11 (HC 1009) reports that non-pay Gross Admin Costs for DECC, excluding non-cash costs, reduced from £40.9 million in 2009-10 to £29.3 million in 2010-11. Figures in this report are prepared in accordance with HM Treasury's Financial Reporting Manual for central Government Departments and associated Treasury resource accounting and budgeting guidance.
	
		
			 Annex A: Activity and Calculation Method 
			 Area Activity description Evidence base/calculation 
			 Consulting Government put in place a moratorium on new consulting spend, and extensions to existing contracts. Where spend was considered operationally critical (for example, where it might put at risk critical services) an exception process existed for Department Ministers to sign off expenditure over £20,000. Savings are calculated by subtracting total departmental reported spend on consultancy for 2010-11 from total departmental reported spend on consultancy for 2009-10. To reduce the risk of costs shifting between categories, we also monitored expenditure on other Professional Services categories, including contingent labour. 
			    
			 Crown Commercial Government has renegotiated deals with some of the largest suppliers to Government. The method of calculation varies according to the initiative that yields the saving, but was based on cash releasing savings against a baseline of what would have otherwise been spent. This was often price savings against the previous price paid. Savings agreed with suppliers are recorded in Memoranda of Understanding as guaranteed-in-year or conditional-in-year savings. Realised savings were subsequently tracked back to departmental verification of supplier progress reports. 
			    
			 Contingent Labour Government has significantly cut the number of temporary staff. Savings are calculated by subtracting total departmental reported spend on contingent labour for 2010-11 from total departmental reported spend on contingent labour for 2009-10. 
			    
			 Communications Government froze all new marketing spend unless it is an operational necessity. Where spend was proposed, ministerial sign-off was required for £20,000 or above. Calculations compare departmental spend on marketing and advertising through COI for 2010-11 with that for 2009-10. 
			    
		
	
	
		
			 Centralising Procurement Government has started to centralise spend on common goods and services to drive down prices. These savings derive from the 10 categories of expenditure targeted for centralisation, and relate to price savings through increased aggregation. For each initiative, calculations are performed using individual benefit methodologies that set out how savings will be calculated against an 2009-10 price baseline. Evidence is management information provided by suppliers. 
			    
			 ICT We implemented: (a) a moratorium on all new ICT spend above £1 million; and (b) a review of all on-going ICT commitments. Departments also reported those projects that were closed before undergoing the review. Calculations are based on departmental reports of spend that has not proceeded. Spend that has not gone ahead in 2010-11 is recorded, as a result of stopping or reducing spend. Further, sustainable savings are targeted through the Government ICT strategy. 
			    
			 Major Projects We reviewed the Government's biggest projects to see where 2010-11 costs could practically be reduced within contractual constraints, or wasteful projects stopped altogether. We have halted or curtailed spend on four projects: 14-19 Reform—£60 million Identity Cards—£50 million Highways Agency Projects—£54 million Whole Farm—£5 million We have redacted £22 million of potential double counting from these figures, that arises between this work and our supplier renegotiation work stream. £14.9 million arises from the Home Office National Identity Cards and £6.7 million from DEFRA Whole Farm. HMT have provided assurance that the relevant amounts were removed from departmental budgets following the Major Projects related negotiations. 
			    
			 Property We put in place national property controls such that signature of new property leases or lease extensions were approved centrally. It has not always been possible to net off all costs associated with vacating buildings. However, we have also not claimed savings in respect of revenue from property disposals. Calculations are property by property based on the amount departments have reported saved through the Government's property database by non-renewal of property leases at lease breaks or upon lease expiry.

Departmental Telephone Services

Nia Griffith: To ask the Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change how much funding he has allocated to each telephone helpline operated by his Department in 2011-12; and what the purpose is of each such helpline.

Gregory Barker: The Department is operating the following helplines in 2011-12:
	
		
			 Helpline Cost 2011-12 Purpose 
			 DECC Enquiry Line and night duty office £89,000 Provides an initial point of telephone contact for all public enquiries, at any time of day, routing these to the appropriate part of the Department. 
			 National Concessionary Fuel Office (NCFG) enquiry line No disaggregated figure available—the helpline is paid for as part of the overall NCFO service. Provides an enquiry service for former British Coal employees regarding their entitlements (where eligible) to benefit under the National Concessionary Fuel Scheme. 
			 Low Carbon Buildings Programme (LCBP) helplines No designated funding as it was contained in the general LCBP budget. Operated until July 2011. Fielded general enquiries, such as the possibility of exchanging LCBP grants for Feed-In Tariffs. 
			 Confidential employee helpline No disaggregated figure available—the helpline is paid for as part of the overall PPC service. DECC contracts with Personal Performance Consultants (UK) Ltd service to provide a telephone and e-mail helpline related to personal issues including managing stress, personal work problems, counselling, bereavement, family issues and career discussions as part of a wider Employee Assistance Scheme. 
		
	
	
		
			 Combined Heat and Power helpline £96,000 Provides e-mail, electronic and telephone support and guidance to industry on technical development and quality assurance of Combined Heat and Power projects. 
			 Oil and Gas Portal helpdesk c.£125,000 for regulatory issues plus c.£60,000 for environmental issues Provides helpdesk and industry support for the Portal, which conducts all oil and gas regulatory business processes electronically, including environmental aspects. 
			 Electricity Portal helpdesk c.£90,000 Provides helpdesk and industry support for the Portal, which issues consents for overhead lines, compulsory purchases etc. 
			 Energie Helpline No disaggregated figure available—the helpline is paid for as part of the overall Energie service Provides support and advice to UK companies and research organisations bidding for EU energy technology research, development and demonstration funding. 
			 Warm Front helpline No disaggregated figure available—the helpline is paid for as part of the overall Warm Front service Provides advice about all aspects of the Warm Front scheme.

Departmental Work Experience

Bridget Phillipson: To ask the Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change how many (a) persons undertaking unpaid work experience, (b) unpaid interns and (c) other persons in unpaid positions were working in his Department as of 1 July 2011.

Gregory Barker: As of 1 July 2011, there was (a) nobody undertaking unpaid work experience; (b) one paid intern and no unpaid interns; and (c) nobody in unpaid positions working in the Department of Energy and Climate Change.

Devolution

Huw Irranca-Davies: To ask the Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change when he last met representatives of the devolved Administrations; and what matters were discussed.

Gregory Barker: All DECC Ministers have regular discussions with Ministers in the devolved Administrations on a range of climate and energy related issues. As has been the case with successive administrations, it is not the Government's practice to provide details of all such meetings.

Electricity

Huw Irranca-Davies: To ask the Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change 
	(1)  what meetings he has had with (a) the Chancellor of the Exchequer, (b) the Secretary of State for Business, Innovation and Skills and (c) the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs on his Department's White Paper on electricity market reform;
	(2)  what representations he has received from ministerial colleagues on his Department's White Paper on electricity market reform;
	(3)  if he will publish the (a) dates and (b) minutes of meetings he has held with representatives of each of the devolved Administrations on electricity market reform.

Charles Hendry: In keeping with good practice for any area of policy development, the Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change, my right hon. Friend the Member for Eastleigh (Chris Huhne) discussed his proposals on electricity market reform with Ministers in other Government Departments prior to seeking Cabinet clearance for the White Paper.
	DECC Ministers have regular discussions with Ministers in the devolved Administrations on a range of climate and energy related issues. As has been the case with successive administrations, it is not the Government's practice to provide details of all such meetings.

Electricity

Huw Irranca-Davies: To ask the Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change how many expressions of interests he has received from electricity sector companies that will be willing to provide additional generating capacity under a capacity mechanism.

Charles Hendry: My right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change has neither received nor sought any firm expressions of interest from electricity sector companies that might provide additional capacity under a capacity mechanism.
	We are currently consulting on the type of capacity mechanism to be introduced and intend to take a decision around the turn of the year. Ensuring a mechanism provides incentives to ensure sufficient capacity (including both generation and non-generation capacity such as demand side response) is in place to provide security of supply is a key criterion for that decision.

Electricity

Huw Irranca-Davies: To ask the Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change by what date he expects to receive state aid clearance for his proposed electricity market reform mechanisms.

Charles Hendry: We will engage closely with the European Commission to ensure our policies on electricity market reform are consistent with the appropriate rules on state aid. Where state aid clearance is required, and as per all other state aid cases, the time it takes will depend on the specific policies in question and/or discussions with the Commission.

Electricity Generation

Huw Irranca-Davies: To ask the Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change what assessment his Department has made of barriers to entry and growth in electricity generation and supply markets for independent generators and suppliers.

Charles Hendry: The Electricity Market Reform White Paper set out the Government's assessment of barriers to entry in particular the problems caused by low levels of liquidity in the electricity wholesale market. Ofgem are consulting on proposals to address market liquidity. Market participants have also raised concerns about other potential barriers to entry including limited routes to market. To the extent that such concerns are substantiated and have not been addressed by Ofgem's the Government will take appropriate steps to address them.
	In addition, we are cutting red tape for smaller suppliers to boost competition in retail markets, while Ofgem is tackling other barriers to effective competition, such as tariff complexity.

Electricity Generation

Huw Irranca-Davies: To ask the Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change what steps his Department plans to take to ensure the implementation of those policies outlined in Planning our electric future: a White Paper for secure, affordable and low carbon electricity.

Gregory Barker: Policies set out in the White Paper will be implemented by:
	discussing the detailed design of Electricity Market Reform (EMR) instruments with stakeholders, including Devolved Administrations and the European Commission
	publishing a technical update at the turn of the year setting out further detail on the Capacity Mechanism and institutional arrangements for delivering EMR
	aiming to introduce primary legislation for EMR in the second session of Parliament, which starts in May 2012
	making the necessary administrative arrangements to prepare the chosen delivery organisation(s) to deliver EMR
	ensuring a smooth transition to the new market arrangements supporting the principle of no retrospective changes for low carbon investments, and
	working with relevant parties to enable early investment decisions to progress to timetable wherever possible.

Electricity Generation

Huw Irranca-Davies: To ask the Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change what estimate he has made of the amount of existing electricity generating capacity that will be decommissioned in each of the next 10 years.

Charles Hendry: For most power plants, the decommissioning date is a matter for the owners of the plant and is not estimated by the Department of Energy and Climate Change.
	However, some power plants have regulated decommissioning dates, such as those covered by the large plant combustion directive (LCPD) as well as the current fleet of nuclear power stations. These dates are set out in the following table:
	
		
			 Station name Fuel Installed capacity (MW) Location Date of regulated retirement 
			 Cockenzie coal 1,152 Scotland 31 December 2015 
			 Ironbridge coal 940 West Midlands 31 December 2015 
			 Tilbury B coal 1,063 East 31 December 2015 
			 Ferrybridge coal 980 Yorkshire 31 December 2015 
			 Didcot A coal 1,958 South East 31 December 2015 
			 Kingsnorth coal 1,940 South East 31 December 2015 
			 Hartlepool nuclear 1,190 North East 2019 
			 Heysham 1 nuclear 1,160 North West 2019 
			 Dungeness B nuclear 1,040 South East 2018 
			 Wylfa nuclear 980 Wales 2012 
			 Hunterston B nuclear 890 Scotland 2016 
			 Hinkley Point B nuclear 870 South West 2016 
			 Oldbury nuclear 217 South West 2012 
			 Littlebrook D oil 1,370 South East 31 December 2015 
			 Grain oil 1,300 South East 31 December 2015 
			 Fawley oil 968 South East 31 December 2015 
			 Notes: 1. All plant closing under the LCPD, i.e. the coal and oil plant in the above list must close on or before 31 December 2015. 2. The lifetime of nuclear plant can be extended, but only with the approval of the Health and Safety Executive's Nuclear Installations Inspectorate (NII) and the Nuclear Decommissioning Authority.

Electricity Generation

Huw Irranca-Davies: To ask the Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change if he will publish his estimate of the electricity sector capacity margin for each year between 2011 and 2020.

Charles Hendry: DECC does not currently publish an estimate of the expected capacity margin.
	The Electricity Market Reform (EMR) White Paper published in July 2011:
	http://www.decc.gov.uk/assets/decc/11/policy-legislation/EMR/2176-emr-white-paper.pdf
	includes a scenario for the capacity margin between 2011 and 2030, including the estimated impact of current policies as well as the low carbon measures being introduced as part of EMR. This is based on outputs of the Redpoint Energy Model and does not constitute a formal estimate of the expected capacity margin.
	Clause 79 in the Energy Bill currently before Parliament will require the Secretary of State to make an assessment of the capacity needed to meet electricity demand in Great Britain. This will be published in 2012 and in each subsequent year. The assessment will cover the four years following the year of its publication or any other periods that the Secretary of State specifies by order.

Electricity Generation

Huw Irranca-Davies: To ask the Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change what estimate he has made of the level of electricity storage capacity in the UK between (a) 2011 and 2015, (b) 2016 and 2020, (c) 2021 and 2025 and (d) 2026 and 2030.

Charles Hendry: In DECC's latest Energy and Emission projections (published June 2010), UK electricity storage capacity was assumed to remain constant at 2.8GW. The assumption is the same in each scenario examined.
	However, analysis conducted using the 2050 Calculator suggests that there remains uncertainty around the exact extent to which electricity storage plays a role in the system in the long-term. Electricity storage features in many successful pathways that meet the 80% greenhouse gas emissions reduction target while maintaining security of supply, and is likely to be an important technology for the future.
	Part 1 of the ‘2050 Pathways Analysis—response to the call for evidence, March 2011’:
	http://www.decc.gov.uk/assets/decc/Consultations/2050/1343-2050-pathways-analysis-response-pt1.pdf
	gives more details.

Electricity Generation

Huw Irranca-Davies: To ask the Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change when he plans to (a) consult and (b) reach a decision on his plans for a capacity mechanism.

Charles Hendry: On 12 July, DECC published a White Paper on electricity market reform, "Planning Our Electric Future: a White Paper for secure, affordable and low-carbon energy"
	http://www.decc.gov.uk/en/content/cms/legislation/white_papers/emr_wp_2011/emr_wp_2011.aspx
	The White Paper includes a consultation on possible models for a capacity mechanism. The consultation closes on 4 October, and we intend to publish a decision on the type of mechanism to be introduced around the turn of the year.

Electricity Generation

Huw Irranca-Davies: To ask the Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change when he expects to develop his policy on electricity systems.

Charles Hendry: As set out in chapter 6 of the Electricity Market Reform White Paper, further work will take place over the next year to develop policy on electricity systems, with the aim of publishing an electricity systems policy document in summer 2012. This will consider how electricity supply and demand is balanced in future given the challenges expected from more intermittent and inflexible generation and increasing demand. It will look at what changes might be required to the system framework and the incentives within it to ensure secure and efficient system balancing. This will include the future role we expect different sources of flexibility to play including storage, demand side response, interconnection to other electricity markets and flexible generation plant.

Electricity: Competition

Huw Irranca-Davies: To ask the Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change what steps Ofgem is taking to (a) increase the ability of new entrants to the electricity market and (b) improve liquidity in the electricity market.

Charles Hendry: Following the Retail Market Review in March 2011, Ofgem put forward a range of proposals to improve competition in the electricity supply market. For example, tariff simplification proposals are designed to make it easier for consumers to identify who is offering the cheapest tariff and therefore to engage in the market.
	Ofgem's work on electricity wholesale market liquidity is also intended to support new entrants in supply and generation markets. Ofgem has consulted on two possible interventions (the Mandatory Auction and Mandatory Market Maker) and expect to publish an impact assessment at the end of this year. Ofgem's proposals have been developed in order to make sure that independent supply and generation companies have access to the wholesale products they need to operate effectively.

Electricity: Theft

Bridget Phillipson: To ask the Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change pursuant to the answer to the hon. Member for Hyndburn of 29 June 2011, Official Report, column 851W, on electricity industry theft, how many recorded security incidents took place between 1 February 2011 and 1 August 2011; and what information he holds on such incidents by (a) regional and (b) local authority area.

Charles Hendry: Pursuant to my answer to the hon. Member for Hyndburn (Graham Jones) of 29 June 2011, Official Report, column 851W, I can confirm that the Department does not collect information concerning security incidents relating to metal theft. The Energy Networks Association, (ENA) on behalf of the energy sector manage a Security Incident Reporting System (SIRS) database that collects data on security incidents experienced by electricity network operators. The SIRS database recorded 3797 security incidents over the period 1 February 2011 to 1 August 2011.

Energy

Mike Weatherley: To ask the Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change if he will estimate the (a) total and (b) domestic level of UK energy consumption in 2015.

Charles Hendry: Future UK energy consumption will depend on a number of variables, including fossil fuel prices and the carbon price. Different assumptions about these variables lead to different projections of consumption. The results for the central scenario, published in DECC's latest Energy and Emission projections (June 2010):
	www.decc.gov.uk/en/content/cms/about/ec_social_res/analytic_projs/en_emis_projs/en_emis_projs.aspx
	are below:
	
		
			 Central scenario 2015 (ktoe) 
			 Total energy demand 217,804 
			   
			 Final energy consumption 146,144 
			 Of which:  
			 Domestic sector 38,008 
		
	
	‘Total energy demand’ includes use of all energy products within the UK, including those used for electricity generation, transformation and non-energy uses. DECC will publish new energy and emission projections in the autumn.

Energy

Huw Irranca-Davies: To ask the Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change if he will list the meetings (a) he and (b) Ministers in his Department have had with representatives of independent energy generators since May 2010.

Gregory Barker: All our meetings with external stakeholders are published on the Cabinet Office website in line with our transparency commitments.

Energy

Huw Irranca-Davies: To ask the Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change whether his Department plans to undertake a review of UK energy usage in each decade up to 2050.

Charles Hendry: Maintaining a strong understanding of energy supply and demand is central to DECC's work. As well as doing this effectively on an ongoing basis, DECC formally reviews energy usage and reports to Parliament as part of its statutory reporting framework under, among others, the Climate Change Act 2008 and the Energy Act 2004.
	DECC also produces regular publications on UK energy usage on a monthly, quarterly and annual basis. The latest annual publication, the “Digest of UK Energy Statistics” was published in July and is available in the House of Commons Library.

Energy Performance Certificates

Zac Goldsmith: To ask the Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change with reference to the Committee on Climate Change report, Meeting Carbon Budgets - 3rd Progress Report to Parliament, June 2011, when he plans to respond to the recommendation for the mandatory roll-out of display energy certificates to non-residential buildings.

Gregory Barker: We recognise that there are potential benefits in rolling out Display Energy Certificates (DECs) to commercial properties, and we continue to explore the options, while developing the evidence base for achieving this without placing undue burdens on business.
	In relation to the 3rd Progress Report to Parliament of the Committee on Climate Change, the Climate Change Act 2008 requires the Government to lay a response to the annual progress reports of the Committee on Climate Change before Parliament no later than 15 October every year.

Energy Supply

Huw Irranca-Davies: To ask the Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change if he will provide an update on recent progress with the (a) Offshore Transmission Coordination Project, (b) North Seas Countries' Offshore Grid Initiative, (c) All Islands Approach and (d) French-UK-Ireland region regulators forum.

Charles Hendry: The Offshore Transmission Coordination Project is running through 2011 to consider whether any additional measures will be required to deliver coordinated networks through the competitive offshore transmission regime. Eight stakeholder meetings and workshops have been held to date, details of which are published on the Ofgem website. DECC and Ofgem aim to publish a joint conclusions report in the winter.
	In the first six months of the North Seas Countries' Offshore Grid Initiative data were collected on the regulatory regimes, planning procedures and projected offshore generation and demand scenarios of the member countries as the first step in identifying barriers to co-ordinated European offshore grid development and elaborating plausible configurations.
	Ministers and Heads of Administration from the British Isles, the Republic of Ireland, the Channel Islands, and the Isle of Man agreed to co-operate in an All Islands Approach to energy, including the potential for renewable energy trading, in the June 2011 British Irish Council held in London. Officials are putting together delivery plans for the workstreams involved.
	The France-UK-Ireland region regulators' forum has agreed priorities and timed deliverables for the period 2011-2014 including the steps needed to implement the EU target model for capacity allocation and congestion management on interconnectors in the region and the framework for interconnector investment.

Energy Supply

Huw Irranca-Davies: To ask the Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change when he expects new rules to be brought forward on wholesale energy market integrity and transparency.

Charles Hendry: On 8 December 2010 the European Commission published a proposal for a regulation on energy market integrity and transparency (REMIT). This set out a regime for the regulation of electricity and gas wholesale markets, including mechanisms for national energy regulators to detect and deter market abuse, in co-operation with the Agency for the Co-operation of Energy Regulators (ACER) and, where appropriate, national financial regulators. Following negotiations in Council working groups, an agreed text will be voted on by the European Parliament on 12 September. The regulation will also need to obtain political agreement by the Council of Ministers before coming into force.

Energy Supply

Huw Irranca-Davies: To ask the Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change when he expects to provide further clarification on the future role of (a) demand side response, storage and interconnection and (b) the development of a smarter grid.

Charles Hendry: As set out in chapter 6 of the Electricity Market Reform White Paper further work will take place over the next year to develop policy on electricity systems, with the aim of publishing a document in summer 2012. This will consider the contribution demand side response, storage and interconnection can make to the efficient functioning of the electricity system. Work is also under way through the joint DECC and Ofgem led Smart Grid Forum (SGF) to evaluate the likely new electricity demands distribution networks will face from now to 2030, the contribution that smart technologies can make to manage these, and the develop an evaluation framework to assess the costs and benefits of such approaches. Outputs from the SGF will be published in the first quarter of 2012 and will help to inform the investments made in the next distributed price control review (RIIO-ED1) as well as the Government's electricity systems policy document.

Energy Supply

Huw Irranca-Davies: To ask the Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change whether his Department has made a recent assessment of the need for changes to the offshore transmission regime.

Charles Hendry: DECC and Ofgem are currently making an assessment of whether any additional measures will be required to deliver coordinated networks through the competitive offshore transmission regime. This is being progressed, in dialogue with industry, through the Offshore Transmission Coordination Project. DECC and Ofgem aim to publish a joint conclusions report containing such an assessment in the winter. Further details of the project and industry working groups are available on the Ofgem website.

Energy Supply: Fees and Charges

Huw Irranca-Davies: To ask the Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change when he expects Ofgem to complete Project TransmiT; and when he expects proposals to be brought forward in respect of the project.

Charles Hendry: Ofgem published an open letter on 7 July 2011 which set out their planned timetable for the next stages of Project TransmiT. The letter can be found at:
	http://www.ofgem.gov.uk/Networks/Trans/PT/Documents1/110707_Final%20launch%20SCR%20statement.pdf
	The letter states that Ofgem's aim is to publish a consultation of options in October and final recommendations in December, with any reforms to be implemented by April 2012. The letter explicitly recognises that this timetable will only be achievable with constructive industry involvement in the process.

Energy: Billing

Zac Goldsmith: To ask the Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change if he will bring forward legislative proposals for energy suppliers to provide customers with information on their energy bills on (a) comparative consumption and (b) their supplier's lowest tariff.

Charles Hendry: The Energy Bill includes powers to legislate to give customers greater control over their energy costs by requiring energy suppliers to inform consumers about the cheapest available tariff.
	We are seeking to implement this proposal as well as the provision of comparative consumption information through a voluntary agreement with energy suppliers, but we will legislate if a suitable voluntary agreement cannot be reached.

Energy: Competition

Huw Irranca-Davies: To ask the Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change what estimate his Department has made of the proportion of consumers that will receive energy from one of the six largest energy companies in (a) 2015, (b) 2020, (c) 2025 and (d) 2030.

Charles Hendry: The Department does not estimate the future market shares of competitors in the energy supply market.
	Government are cutting red tape for smaller suppliers to boost competition in retail energy markets, while Ofgem is tackling other barriers to effective competition, such as tariff complexity and low wholesale market liquidity, in its Retail Market Review.

Energy: Conservation

Huw Irranca-Davies: To ask the Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change when he plans to publish an assessment of (a) whether there are sufficient measures to encourage efficiency improvements in electricity usage and (b) whether there is a need for appropriate additional measures to encourage energy efficiency.

Charles Hendry: Initial analysis suggests there is cost-effective energy efficiency potential across the economy which is unlikely to be realised through the current mix of policy measures. A key role for DECCs new Energy Efficiency Deployment Office will be to develop this analysis and assess those areas where it might be appropriate to tighten existing policy or introduce appropriate additional measures, to encourage greater energy efficiency. I would expect to make public the results of this assessment when it is sufficient developed.
	As part of this work DECC is keen to ensure that electricity consumers contribute an appropriate share of the UK's overall improvement in energy efficiency and will undertake an assessment over the coming year to determine whether further steps are needed to improve the support and incentives for the efficient use of electricity. The results of this assessment will be made public over the course of next year.

Energy: EU Internal Trade

William Bain: To ask the Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change if he will assess the potential contribution to UK economic growth of the completion of an EU single market in energy.

Charles Hendry: The impact assessment on implementation of the third package of legislation on the single market in energy concluded that significant benefits could derive to the UK from full compliance with the package across the EU. The package should have an overall positive effect on economic growth by promoting cross-border trade and increasing competition. Increased trade and greater market integration should reduce our vulnerability to supply and price shocks and provide opportunities for exports. Increased competition should put downward pressure on consumer prices through reducing market power and providing incentives for suppliers to keep costs down. It should also encourage innovation with its positive effects on productivity and economic growth. Consumers should also benefit from greater choice and improved service. However, further action under the package to agree cross-border technical codes, which is already underway, will be required to complete the single energy market and this should lead to greater benefits for the UK. The aim is to achieve this by 2014.

Energy: EU Internal Trade

Huw Irranca-Davies: To ask the Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change whether the Third Internal Energy Market Package has been transposed into UK law.

Charles Hendry: The draft Electricity and Gas (Internal Markets) Regulations 2011, which transpose the Third Internal Energy Market Package, were laid before Parliament on 18 July 2011.
	They will be made after Parliament has approved the regulations by affirmative resolution. Further regulations will be laid shortly to make certain changes to gas transporter licences in order to transpose outstanding aspects of the Third Internal Energy Market Package.

Energy: Finance

Huw Irranca-Davies: To ask the Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change 
	(1)  what estimate he has made of the expected level of investment in the UK energy generation sector between (a) 2011 and 2015, (b) 2016 and 2020, (c) 2021 and 2025 and (d) 2026 and 2030;
	(2)  what estimate he has made of the required level of investment in electricity generation to ensure a decarbonised electricity generation sector by 2030 between (a) 2011 and 2015, (b) 2016 and 2020, (c) 2021 and 2025 and (d) 2026 and 2030.

Charles Hendry: The Government are committed to transforming the UK's electricity system to ensure that our future electricity supply is secure, low-carbon and affordable.
	There is a need for substantial investment in the UK's electricity generation sector in order to ensure future security of supply and build a more diverse and sustainable energy mix. Estimates in the Electricity Market Reform Consultation Document Impact Assessment are that £70-75 billion of investment in new electricity generation plant would be required for the period to 2020 to meet illustrative decarbonisation and renewables targets(1). These targets will be reviewed in the Government response to the Committee on Climate Change's recommendations in the autumn.
	Government projections for future business investment across the whole economy are contained within the Office of Budget Responsibility's forecasts(2). The outturn level of investment in the electricity generation sector will depend on commercial decisions and is affected by a large number of additional economic, fiscal, and regulatory factors. Nevertheless, the package of policies set out in the EMR White Paper
	(3)
	and the following legislation will play a key role in supporting the necessary private sector investment.
	(1 )http://www.decc.gov.uk/assets/decc/Consultations/emr/1042-ia-electricity-market-reform.pdf
	(2) http://budgetresponsibility.independent.gov.uk/wordpress/docs/economic_and_fiscal_outlook_23032011.pdf
	(3 )http://www.decc.gov.uk/assets/decc/11/policy-legislation/EMR/2176-emr-white-paper.pdf

Energy: International Cooperation

Huw Irranca-Davies: To ask the Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change when he expects the European Supergrid to become operational.

Charles Hendry: The term “supergrid” is used in a variety of different contexts ranging from a more integrated offshore grid in the seas around the UK, to a network of large interconnectors linking low carbon generation with centres of demand across the EU. The Government are engaged in a number of processes, including the North Seas Countries' Offshore Grid Initiative and the All Islands Approach agreed at the British Irish Council summit in June, that are considering the costs, benefits and technical challenges of a more integrated offshore grid in the North and Irish seas and how it could be developed. Later this year, the Commission are expected to publish proposals for facilitating investment in energy infrastructure across the EU, including major electricity links. Any developments are likely to take place in an incremental manner over a period of years.

Energy: Wales

Jonathan Edwards: To ask the Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change whether he has met (a) Welsh Ministers and (b) the Secretary of State for Wales regarding the devolution of decision-making on consents for energy projects with a generating capacity of 50 to 100 megawatts.

Gregory Barker: The Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change, the right hon. Member for Eastleigh (Chris Huhne), has had discussions with both Welsh Ministers and the Secretary of State for Wales, my right hon. Friend the Member for Chesham and Amersham (Mrs Gillan), on the devolution of decision-making on consents for energy projects with a generating capacity of 50 MW to 100 MW.
	The Government have indicated that they do not currently intend to devolve this matter to Welsh Ministers.

Environment Protection: Business

Zac Goldsmith: To ask the Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change what recent progress he has made in developing a voluntary Green Responsibility Deal with business and other organisations.

Gregory Barker: Officials in DECC and the Cabinet Office have had discussions with stakeholder groups and businesses about encouraging voluntary action on energy use and emissions reduction.
	In the recent publication on Enabling the Transition to a Green Economy we highlighted a number of areas of action that leading businesses are already undertaking and that we encourage others to consider.
	We will set out further details of work to encourage voluntary action, in line with the Government's responsibility deal approach, in the autumn.

Gas Fired Power Stations

Huw Irranca-Davies: To ask the Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change what estimate his Department has made of the average commercial lifespan of a new gas-fired power plant.

Charles Hendry: The expected commercial lifespan of a new gas plant is a matter for the owners of the plant and is not estimated by the Department of Energy and Climate Change.
	The Department has recently published a reported by PB Power on the average expected technical lifetime, the number of years a plant might be expected to be able to operate, for a range of non-renewable plant. For Combined Cycle Gas Turbine (CCGT) plant this was estimated to be 30 years. The full report can be found on DECC's website at:
	http://www.decc.gov.uk/assets/decc/11/about-us/economics-social-research/2127-electricity-generation-cost-model-2011.pdf

Gas Fired Power Stations

Huw Irranca-Davies: To ask the Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change how many new gas plants he expects to enter operation in the UK in each of the next five years.

Charles Hendry: The Department for Energy and Climate Change does not make estimates of the number of new gas plants expected to enter operation each year.
	However, National Grid do provide an estimate through their transmission entry capacity (TEC) database. This database includes expected future new gas plant, and an expected completion date. The completion date represents the developer's estimate of when the plant will obtain transmission entry capacity. The following table shows the number of gas plants with a completion date over the next five years from this database which was last updated on 23 August 2011.
	
		
			 Completion date Number of gas plants 
			 2011 1 
			 2012 3 
			 2013 3 
			 2014 4 
			 2015 1 
			 2016 5 
		
	
	A link is provided to the database as follows:
	http://www.nationalgrid.com/uk/Electricity/GettingConnected/ContractedGenerationInformation/TransmissionEntryCapacityRegister/

Green Deal Scheme

Zac Goldsmith: To ask the Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change what steps he plans to take to co-ordinate the introduction of the Green Deal with roll-out of the Renewable Heat Incentive.

Gregory Barker: Phase One of the Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI) should be open for applications from the end of September, subject to state aid clearance.
	We are aiming to introduce Phase Two of the RHI, which will include support for households, in autumn 2012 alongside the Green Deal. In addition we have already publicly stated that any measure that pays through savings will be supported in the Green Deal, including microgeneration measures where relevant. We are still developing the details on how we will co-ordinate the launch of the two policies but will aim to publish the details as soon as possible.

Local Energy Partnerships

Zac Goldsmith: To ask the Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change what steps he plans to take to create local energy partnerships.

Gregory Barker: We are designing the Green Deal framework, including the new Energy Company Obligation (ECO), in a way which should offer natural encouragement for local authorities and other local interest groups on the one hand, and energy companies, Green Deal providers and other private sector organisations on the other, to work in partnership to deliver practical measures and benefits at local level.

Nuclear Power

Huw Irranca-Davies: To ask the Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change what recent discussions he has had with representatives of the nuclear industry to ensure (a) confidence in the sector and (b) preparations for new nuclear build.

Charles Hendry: Ministers and officials meet on a regular basis with representatives from the nuclear industry with regard to the safe and secure operation of existing nuclear facilities and progress on the UK new build programme. All ministerial meetings are published on the DECC website at:
	http://www.decc.gov.uk/en/content/cms/accesstoinform/registers/ministermtgs/ministerititgs.aspx
	In particular, my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change chairs the Nuclear Development Forum, (NDF) which meets three times a year. Its members are senior representatives from the nuclear industry, including vendors, operators, key suppliers, contractors and unions—as well as the Government. The Forum ensures there is regular and high-level contact on the issues that matter the most to potential investors and operators regarding the UK new build programme.
	The next NDF is due to meet in the autumn. The minutes from meetings are available on the nuclear pages of the DECC website.

Offshore Transmission Coordination Group

Huw Irranca-Davies: To ask the Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change what the functions are of the Offshore Transmission Coordination Group.

Charles Hendry: The terms of reference for the Offshore Transmission Coordination Group are on the Ofgem website. The Group, through the expertise, experience and knowledge of its members, provides support to Government and Ofgem's development and consideration of policy options for maximising the opportunity of the development of co-ordinated offshore transmission infrastructure. The Group has met four times to date, details of which are also on the Ofgem website.

Power Stations

Huw Irranca-Davies: To ask the Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change what his policy is on the potential for a new mixed-oxide plant.

Charles Hendry: The potential for a new mixed oxide (MOX) plant is part of our considerations on the policy options for dealing with the UK's plutonium stockpile, which the Government have been consulting on. While we have not formally announced the outcome of the consultation, our preliminary view, as set out in our paper, was that our plutonium should be reused as mixed oxide (MOX) fuel in reactors. Should we proceed with our preliminary view about reusing plutonium, implementation of this policy would require a new MOX plant.

Renewable Energy

Huw Irranca-Davies: To ask the Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change what steps his Department is undertaking with its EU counterparts to promote renewable deployment.

Gregory Barker: The UK is working with its EU counterparts as a member of a Concerted Action Network on the Renewable Energy Directive (CA-RES). The CA-RES supports the achievement of national renewable energy targets required by 2020 under the directive. It will focus on topics that require a common approach or which would benefit from the exchange of best practice between member states.
	The main objectives of the CA-RES are:
	The exchange of experience and best practice between member states on the implementation of the 2009 Renewable Energy Directive
	Encouraging dialogue between member states on common approaches to the effective implementation of the directive
	Facilitating the process of cross-learning at the EU level and providing support for effective implementation of the directive.

Renewable Energy: Electricity

Huw Irranca-Davies: To ask the Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change what proportion of electricity generation he estimates will come from renewable sources in 2020.

Gregory Barker: DECC estimates that around 30% of electricity generation will need to come from renewable sources by 2020 as part of the effort to meet the 2020 renewable energy target.
	We are committed to meeting our renewable energy target and our modelling shows that this is challenging but achievable(1).
	(1) Source—UK Renewable Energy Roadmap
	http://www.decc.gov.uk/assets/decc/11/meeting-energy-demand/renewable-energy/2167-uk-renewable-energy-roadmap.pdf

Renewable Energy: Electricity

Huw Irranca-Davies: To ask the Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change what proportion of electricity generation he expects to come from (a) onshore wind, (b) offshore wind and (c) biomass in 2020.

Gregory Barker: The UK Renewable Energy Roadmap, published in July 2011, provides illustrative 'central ranges' for deployment for a number of renewable technologies—including onshore wind, offshore wind and biomass electricity—based upon modelling of variables such as technology cost, build rates, and the policy framework.
	Using these central ranges, the potential contribution to electricity generation from the following technologies in 2020 is as follows:
	(a) onshore wind could contribute between 24-32 TWh, 6-9% of overall electricity generation;
	(b) offshore wind could contribute between 33-58 TWh, 9-15% of overall electricity generation;
	(c) biomass (including dedicated feedstock, energy from waste, landfill and sewage gas, conversion and co-firing) could contribute between 32-50 TWh, 9-13% of overall electricity generation.
	The central ranges do not represent technology specific targets or the level of our ambition. They are based on our current understanding of deployment, costs and non-financial barriers and could change significantly as the market evolves to 2020.
	For further information, the Roadmap can be downloaded here:
	http://www.decc.gov.uk/assets/decc/11/meeting-energy-demand/renewable-energy/2167-uk-renewable-energy-roadmap.pdf

Renewable Energy: Feed-in Tariffs

Jason McCartney: To ask the Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change if he will bring forward proposals to allow microgenerators to set the sale price of the energy they generate at the same rate as is charged for the energy that they use.

Charles Hendry: Microgenerators are free to sell their electricity on the open market and can chose to opt out of the export tariff which, since April 2010, has been available to eligible generators as part of the support provided under the feed-in tariffs (FITs) scheme. The export tariff is a guaranteed payment for the amount of electricity exported to the grid and is additional to a payment for the amount of electricity generated and the bill savings associated with using electricity generated on site. Both the export tariff and the generation tariff are linked to the retail prices index and update annually.
	The first comprehensive review of FITs is currently underway and is considering all aspects of the scheme, including tariffs and arrangements for exports. We will be consulting on proposals as part of the comprehensive review later this year.

Renewable Energy: Feed-in Tariffs

Huw Irranca-Davies: To ask the Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change 
	(1)  whether the feed-in tariff contracts for difference payment will be paid for intermittent energy generation in (a) advance or (b) arrears;
	(2)  whether the feed-in tariff contracts for difference payment will be paid for baseload energy generation in (a) advance or (b) arrears.

Gregory Barker: My officials are currently working on details regarding the implementation of the Feed-in Tariff with Contracts for Difference. A technical update will be published at the turn of the year setting out further detail on the institutional arrangements for delivering the electricity market reforms.

Renewable Energy: Feed-in Tariffs

Huw Irranca-Davies: To ask the Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change when he expects to determine whether a greater certainty of payment in the feed-in tariff contracts for difference will form part of the support package for carbon capture and storage demonstration projects.

Gregory Barker: The Department is considering several options for providing support to carbon capture and storage (CCS) demonstration projects, including through the Feed-In Tariffs with Contracts for Difference in concert with other measures. We intend to set out the broad approach to providing support when we launch the call for the additional CCS projects.

Renewable Energy: Feed-in Tariffs

Huw Irranca-Davies: To ask the Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change when he plans to publish further details on (a) how and (b) by whom feed-in tariff contracts for difference will be delivered.

Gregory Barker: My officials are currently working on the detail regarding implementation of the feed-in tariff with Contracts for Difference, and are continuing to discuss aspects with a variety of industry stakeholders. A technical update will be published at the turn of the year setting out further detail on the institutional arrangements for delivering the electricity market reforms.

Renewable Energy: Finance

Zac Goldsmith: To ask the Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change what recent discussions he has had with representatives of the finance and investment community on the provision of finance for anaerobic digestion.

Gregory Barker: Although I have not had any recent discussions on the provision of finance for anaerobic digestion, DECC has worked in partnership with DEFRA to address the financing challenge for the sector through the Anaerobic Digestion Strategy and Action Plan which was published in June. The strategy sets out a programme of work for Government and industry to tackle the barriers to deployment of anaerobic digestion. A number of finance and investment companies participated in the discussions of the DECC-led regulation and Finance Working Group which fed into the overarching strategy and put forward actions to help the industry obtain finance. The strategy is available in the Libraries of the House and at:
	http://www.defra.gov.uk/environment/waste/business/anaerobic-digestion/

Renewable Energy: Finance

Huw Irranca-Davies: To ask the Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change how much of the £200 million his Department has allocated to support new low-carbon technologies has been spent so far on (a) offshore wind manufacturing infrastructure at ports, (b) innovation in offshore wind component manufacture and (c) the development of marine technologies.

Charles Hendry: The spending review allocated over £200 million to support low carbon technologies, of which up to £60 million was included to support the establishment of offshore wind manufacturing at port sites in assisted areas in England. Bids for support for this fund, made under the Grant for Business Investment (GBI) scheme are made on a confidential basis. We are working with a number of companies on a commercially confidential basis to take forward this spend. Information on grant offers for sums greater than £75,000 is normally published following the payment of the first instalment of the grant. Publicity of a GBI project before this stage can only take place with the agreement of the applicant company.
	The process of allocating the remaining funding to projects over the four year period of the spending review is ongoing but no funds have yet been spent. In June DECC announced, subject to value for money assessments, up to £20 million to support the pre-commercial demonstration of two marine array devices in years three and four of the spending review period; and in July DECC announced, subject to value for money assessments, up to £30 million, for offshore wind technology development. Further information on both these innovation programmes as well as funding allocations for other technologies will be available later this year.
	The Carbon Trust receives funding from DECC for offshore wind technology innovation through the Offshore Wind Accelerator (OWA). DECC has committed in the region of £4 million to the OWA in financial year 2011-12; of which so far £902,000 of work has been completed and £138,000 has been invoiced and paid.

Renewable Energy: Government Assistance

Huw Irranca-Davies: To ask the Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change for what reasons his Department did not secure state aid approval in time to implement an increase in the level of financial support available to anaerobic digestion plants on 1 August 2011, as outlined in the consultation on the fast-track review for small-scale low-carbon electricity.

Gregory Barker: The consultation on the fast-track review of feed-in tariffs for small-scale low carbon electricity (published March 2011) made clear that the proposed increases in tariffs for anaerobic digestion were subject to any necessary state aid approval from the European Commission.
	Similarly, the decision document (published June 2011) confirming the outcome of that consultation noted that:
	“the increase to the AD tariff requires a more detailed level of scrutiny by the European Commission under State Aid regulations. This may lead to a delay to the introduction of the increased AD tariff which will be introduced on 1 August or the date of state aids approval, whichever is later.”
	The process of requesting state aid approval started immediately following the publication of this document. We are currently awaiting the European Commission's decision and have ensured that the new tariffs for AD will apply as soon as state aid clearance is received.

Renewables Obligation

Jamie Reed: To ask the Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change if he will retain a band within the renewables obligation for biomass combined heat and power generation and grandfather this to the end of the scheme.

Gregory Barker: A banding review of renewable obligation support for all technologies began in October last year and any change in support for biomass combined heat and power generation will be considered as part of this process.
	We intend to launch a consultation on the proposed new bands shortly. Any changes in support levels will be come into effect on 1 April 2013 (1 April 2014 for offshore wind).

Renewables Obligation

Huw Irranca-Davies: To ask the Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change when he expects to announce the length of periods of grace that will be offered to new energy generation after the closure of the renewables obligation.

Gregory Barker: The Government recognises that there is a significant existing renewable electricity investor community, and we aim to prevent a hiatus in renewables deployment while the new Electricity Market Reforms are implemented. Having sought industry views on the best means to transition to a new scheme, Annex D of the Electricity Market Reform White Paper sets out in full the transition arrangements for renewables.
	This includes our intention to offer limited grace periods to generation which was due to accredit on or before 31 March 2017, but which was delayed through no fault of its own, by either a change in grid connection date instigated by the transmission or distribution operator or a delay in the agreed installation of radar. We intend that these generators may accredit under the RO and will remain subject to the 2037 end date for the RO. Further details, including the evidence requirements for exercise of the grace period, are still being considered.
	We intend to consult on the provision of Banding Review grace periods as part of the forthcoming consultation on the Renewables Obligation Banding Review, where stakeholders will have the opportunity to comment on our proposals. Following the Banding Review consultation, our intention is to mirror the Banding Review grace period proposals in the RO Transition.

Solar Power: China

Huw Irranca-Davies: To ask the Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change what assessment his Department has made of the introduction by the Chinese Government of a nationwide feed-in tariff incentive scheme for photovoltaic solar installations on the global solar photovoltaic market.

Gregory Barker: Like many other countries, China has recently announced a feed-in tariffs scheme. The Chinese scheme has some key differences to the Great Britain feed-in tariffs (FITs) scheme; for example, the Chinese scheme is based on a single tariff level for all installations, with degression over time, whereas the GB scheme is differentiated according to technology and installed capacity. Given the size of the potential internal Chinese market for renewable energy development, this announcement could have significant impacts, especially for the global PV industry. DECC officials will continue to follow the progress of the scheme as it is implemented.

Water Power

Zac Goldsmith: To ask the Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change what recent progress his Department has made in the development of the Offshore Energy Strategic Environmental Assessment for English and Welsh waters to support the deployment of marine energy devices.

Charles Hendry: The Offshore Strategic Environmental Assessment (OESEA) has been completed and was subject to a 12-week public consultation period. The assessment document can be found at:
	http://www.offshore-sea.org.uk/site/index.php
	My officials are currently preparing a post-consultation report which should be published on the SEA website shortly.

Water Power

Zac Goldsmith: To ask the Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change what steps his Department plans to take to accelerate the development and deployment of marine renewable technologies at commercial scale through the UK Marine Energy Programme.

Gregory Barker: At the start of this year I launched the UK Marine Energy Programme which has established three working groups, Financing, Planning and Consenting and Knowledge Sharing, to examine the issues and potential barriers to the development and deployment of marine renewable technologies at commercial scale. The working groups draw their representatives from across the industry including the energy utilities, industrial companies, technology developers, financiers as well as Government.
	The outputs of the Financing working group fed into the Department's deliberations on innovation support and it provided evidence to support the Department's decision to invest up to £20 million, subject to a value for money assessment, in wave and tidal power to help develop marine energy technologies from prototype stage to demonstration of arrays of devices. The group has also fed into the current renewables obligation banding review.
	The next board meeting will take place towards the end of the year.

Water Power

Zac Goldsmith: To ask the Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change whether marine energy projects will be eligible to receive support through his proposed feed-in tariff with Contract for Difference.

Charles Hendry: Under the reforms outlined in the EMR White Paper, the competitive market will continue but four inter-locking policy instruments are proposed to change the returns generators can expect for the power stations they build and the electricity they generate:
	Greater long-term certainty around the additional cost of running polluting plant through a carbon price floor. Proposals from the Treasury to provide greater support and certainty to the carbon price will increase investment in low carbon generation by providing a clearer long-term price for carbon in the power sector.
	Long-term contracts for low carbon generation will make clean energy investment more attractive still. Through a 'contract for difference' feed-in tariff, the Government will agree clear, long-term contracts, resulting in a top-up payment to low carbon generators if wholesale prices are low but clawing back money for consumers if prices become higher than the cost of low carbon generation. An alternative 'premium' feed-in tariff is also set out in the consultation document.
	Additional payments to encourage the construction of reserve plants to ensure the lights stay on. A capacity mechanism will ensure there remains an adequate safety cushion of capacity as the amount of intermittent and inflexible low carbon generation increases.
	A back-stop to limit how much carbon the most dirty power stations—coal—can emit. An Emissions Performance Standard will reinforce the existing requirement that no new coal is built without carbon capture and storage.
	The reforms are aimed at giving existing players and new entrants in the energy sector the certainty they need to raise the level of investment they need. Ofgem's review into the liquidity of the wholesale electricity market will be an essential complement to the reforms.

Water Power

Zac Goldsmith: To ask the Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change what progress he has made in establishing the South West Marine Energy Park.

Gregory Barker: At the first meeting of the UK Marine Energy Programme Board earlier this year I asked stakeholders in the south-west of England to come forward with plans of how they could create a marine energy park in the region and which could form a potential model for other regions looking at establishing their own marine energy park.
	Regen South West along with representatives of Plymouth and Cornwall council, presented their concept of a Marine Energy Park to the UK Marine Energy Programme Board last June. The presentation was well received and showed the right balance of ambition, practicality and flexibility necessary to design a sustainable park and build on the strengths which exist in the region.
	They are developing their proposals further and will provide an update at the next programme board. I have had meetings with other regional stakeholders to discuss how they might create Marine Energy Parks in their own areas.

Wave Power

Zac Goldsmith: To ask the Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change what plans he has to support the Siadar Wave Energy Project.

Gregory Barker: It would not be appropriate for me to comment on whether the Government will provide support for individual companies or projects.
	However, the coalition Government is committed to supporting the development of marine energy in the UK. I am working with the sector, through the Marine Energy Programme Board, to address the barriers which exist to the development of the wave and tidal sector in the UK. This includes the Department's ongoing plans to establish Marine Energy Parks and our recent announcement of up to £20 million innovation funding, subject to value for money assessment, to support the demonstration of arrays of devices.

Wind Power

Zac Goldsmith: To ask the Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change what support he plans to provide for the development of the Eneco wind park.

Charles Hendry: Offshore wind farms are supported at the technology level, based on the amount of electricity they generate. Currently, wind farms accredited by 31 March 2014 are supported under the renewables obligation (RO) at two renewable obligation certificates (ROCs) per MWh. We are currently carrying out a banding review to determine RO support levels beyond then. Through electricity market reform, we are putting in place future support for low carbon electricity generation, as set out in our White Paper(1). The UK's Renewable Energy Roadmap(2) ( )sets out a comprehensive action plan to accelerate the UK's deployment and use of renewable energy. This includes offshore wind as one of the eight technologies that have the greatest potential to help meet our renewable energy target. Both documents were published on 12 July this year.
	I co-chair the Offshore Wind Developers Forum, which is working with UK offshore wind developers to ensure the deliverability of offshore wind and to identify economic opportunities for business in the UK.
	(1) ( )http://www.decc.gov.uk/en/content/cms/legislation/white_papers/ emr_wp_2011.aspx
	(2) ( )http://www.decc.gov.uk/en/content/cms/meeting_energy/renewable _ener/re_roadmap/re_roadmap.aspx

HOME DEPARTMENT

UK Border Agency Worker Scheme

Anne Main: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department pursuant to the answer of 19 July 2011, Official Report, columns 805-6W, on UK Border Agency Worker Scheme, how many applications to the UK Border Agency Worker Registration Scheme have been accepted since the establishment of the scheme; and what the nationality was of (a) successful and (b) unsuccessful applicants.

Damian Green: The Worker Registration Scheme was established in May 2004 and ended on 30 April 2011. The total number of applications that were accepted since the scheme was established is 2,001,254.
	The number of applications approved and refused by nationality is provided in the table.
	
		
			 Nationality Approved Refused 
			 Czech Republic 78,114 939 
			 Estonia 16,100 147 
			 Hungary 82,997 452 
			 Latvia 140,852 836 
			 Lithuania 213,309 1,793 
			 Poland 1,209,698 6,045 
			 Slovakia 181,507 2,022 
			 Slovenia 1,694 18 
			 Other 6 1,116 
			 Total 1,924,277 13,368

Animal Welfare

Neil Parish: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether it will be a mandatory requirement for designated establishments to meet or exceed the standards set out in future codes of practice on (a) humane killing and (b) housing and care of animals used in scientific procedures.

Nick Herbert: Annexes III and IV of European Directive 2010/63/EU on the protection of animals used for scientific purposes set out mandatory requirements for the care and accommodation of animals and methods of killing, respectively. The requirements of annex IV must be implemented in UK legislation from 1 January 2013 and those of annex III from 1 January 2017.
	Article 2 of the European directive allows member states to retain stricter national provisions in force on 9 November 2010 provided such measures do not inhibit the free market by prohibiting or impeding the supply or use of animals from another member state applying the minimum standards set out in the directive, or the placing on the market of products developed with the use of such animals.
	Views on the application of article 2 in relation to the matters covered by annexes III and IV are being sought in the public consultation on the options for transposition of the European directive. The public consultation was published on 13 June 2011 and closes today (5 September 2011). Careful account will be taken of any responses received on these matters in the development of future guidance and codes of practice.

Animal Welfare

Neil Parish: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what plans she has for (a) guidance notes and (b) codes of practice regarding humane killing, severity classification of procedures and animal housing and care to accompany legislation implementing Directive 2010/63/EU on the protection of animals used for scientific purposes; and what plans she has to consult stakeholders from the research community, veterinarians, animal technologists and representatives of animal welfare organisations on such guidance notes and codes of practice.

Nick Herbert: Preliminary work on the preparation of guidance and a code of practice to accompany the legislation implementing European Directive 2010/63/EU has begun. We will seek input from individuals and groups with an interest, including those listed, at appropriate points in the detailed drafting process.

Animal Welfare

Neil Parish: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether she has any plans to change the (a) nature and (b) frequency of inspections of establishments designated under the Animals (Scientific Procedures) Act 1986.

Nick Herbert: At present the Animals (Scientific Procedures) Inspectorate implements a risk-based approach to inspection and as such the frequency, duration and style of inspection may vary as any relevant risks alter.
	Views on the inspection system have been sought in the public consultation on the options for transposition of European Directive 2010/63/EU on the protection of animals used for scientific purposes. The public consultation was published on 13 June 2011 and closed (5 September 2011). The arrangements for inspections will be determined after relevant responses have been considered.

Animal Welfare

Neil Parish: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether she plans to allocate additional funding for the National Committee for the Protection of Animals Used for Scientific Purposes arising from implementation of Directive 2010/63/EU on the protection of animals used for scientific purposes.

Lynne Featherstone: The functions of the National Committee for the Protection of Animals Used for Scientific Purposes are set out in Article 49 of European Directive 2010/63/EU on the protection of animals used for scientific purposes.
	Views on the National Committee are currently being sought in the public consultation on the options for transposition of the directive. The public consultation was published on 13 June 2011 and closed on 5 September 2011.
	The arrangements for the National Committee, including any funding requirements, will be determined in due course after relevant responses have been considered.

Animal Welfare

Madeleine Moon: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what plans she has to reduce the number of animals bred for use in scientific research; and if she will make a statement.

Lynne Featherstone: The licensing system under the Animals (Scientific Procedures) Act 1986 is demand led and provides no direct mechanism for reducing the breeding and use of animals. Instead the Act requires that animal use is kept to a minimum.
	The coalition agreement includes a commitment to work to reduce the use of animals in scientific research. The commitment will be delivered through a science-led programme led by the National Centre for Replacement, Refinement and Reduction of Animals in Research (NC3Rs), an organisation with a strong record in reducing animal use.
	The programme will focus on refinement as well as reduction and replacement and will co-ordinate action to minimise and reduce animal use and suffering while avoiding actions which might simply drive work abroad to countries where lower standards or less stringent testing guidelines apply.
	Any reduction in animal use achieved by the programme is likely also to have an impact on the demand for purpose-bred animals in the UK.

Antisocial Behaviour

Andy Slaughter: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what plans she has to provide support to the voluntary and third sector to provide services to tackle antisocial behaviour in urban areas.

James Brokenshire: The Home Office announced the creation of the Community Action Against Crime: Innovation Fund in July 2011. This fund is worth £5 million in 2011-12 and a further £5 million in 2012-13. The fund seeks to encourage the voluntary and community sector to develop creative new approaches to tackling crime in local neighbourhoods, including antisocial behaviour. It will open to bids at the end of this month.
	The Home Office is developing work in response to the recommendations made by Baroness Newlove, the Government's Champion for Active, Safer Communities, in her report “Our Vision for Safe and Active Communities”. This includes the roll-out of the 101 non-emergency number for reporting antisocial behaviour, and driving up volunteering in the civil service. The Home Office has also provided funding for seven “Newlove Neighbourhoods”, supporting community activists to tackle the crime and antisocial behaviour problems in their neighbourhoods.

Antisocial Behaviour: Crime Prevention

Toby Perkins: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what information her Department holds on the number of Mosquito devices in operation in (a) the UK and (b) each local authority area.

Nick Herbert: The Home Office does not collect information centrally on the number of Mosquito devices in operation in the UK or in individual local authority areas.

Antisocial Behaviour: Crime Prevention

Toby Perkins: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether she has received representations on the (a) appropriateness, (b) ethics and (c) legality of the use of the Mosquito device; and if she will make a statement.

James Brokenshire: The Home Office has received representations from members of the public and a range of organisations on the appropriateness, ethics and legality of the Mosquito device.
	Use of the Mosquito is not currently prohibited or regulated under UK law. It is a commercial product and is not endorsed by the Home Office or the Association of Chief Police Officers.

Civil Disorder

Priti Patel: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what steps she plans to take to recover from the perpetrators the costs of (a) policing and (b) damage arising from public disorder in August 2011.

Nick Herbert: There are currently no plans to recover the policing costs from the perpetrators of the disorder. However, courts can impose a compensation order for any offence that has resulted in personal injury, loss or damage. This will apply where individual victims have been injured, as well as where individuals or businesses have experienced offences such as theft, burglary or criminal damage. The Legal Aid, Sentencing and Punishment of Offenders Bill will strengthen the law on compensation orders by giving the courts a clear, positive duty to consider imposing such an order in any case where there is an identifiable victim.

Civil Disorder

Hugh Bayley: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department how many (a) homeowners and (b) businesses have sought compensation under the Riot (Damages) Act 1886 in respect of damage or loss sustained during the disturbances in August 2011; how many have received compensation to date; what the average sum paid in compensation has been; and how much compensation she expects to be paid (i) to those who have submitted claims and (ii) in total when all claims have been received.

Nick Herbert: We do not hold this information centrally, as claims under the Riot Damages Act are made direct to police authorities.

Civil Disorder

Hugh Bayley: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department how many police forces have (a) applied for and (b) received additional funding from her Department towards the cost of responding to the disturbances in August 2011; and how much she estimates will be paid out by her Department in respect of these costs.

Nick Herbert: To date, no forces have applied for or received funding to cover the cost of policing the disturbances in August 2011.

Civil Disorder

David Amess: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what payments were made to each police authority under the Riot (Damages) Act 1886 in each year since 1997; what estimate she has made of the amount of such payments likely to be made in the next 12 months; and if she will make a statement.

Nick Herbert: Claims for compensation under the Riot (Damages) Act 1996 are made directly to the police authorities. These data are not held centrally. There is no estimate yet for the total cost for any future claims.

Civil Disorder

David Amess: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department how many (a) males and (b) females in each (i) age group and (ii) local authority were (A) killed, (B) seriously injured and (C) slightly injured during recent incidents of public disorder; and if she will make a statement.

Nick Herbert: Data for offences recorded by the police in England and Wales in August (the month that these incidents of public disorder took place) will be available from 19 January 2012. It will not be possible to identify which of these offences were linked to the recent incidents of public disorder.

Civil Disorder

David Amess: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what proposals she plans to bring forward to tackle public disorder; what recent representations she has received on this issue; and if she will make a statement.

Nick Herbert: The Government are working closely with the police and HM Inspectorate of Constabulary (HMIC) to ensure that they have the powers, tactics and the resources that they need to tackle public disorder on our streets.

Civil Disorder

David Amess: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what estimate she has made of the costs to the public purse of recent public disorder; and if she will make a statement.

Nick Herbert: There is no estimate yet for the total cost resulting from the disturbances in August 2011.

Civil Disorder

Priti Patel: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what estimate has been made of the cost of policing in respect of public disorder in August 2011.

Nick Herbert: There is no estimate yet for the total cost of policing resulting from the disturbances in August 2011.

Civil Disorder

Priti Patel: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what estimate has been made of the total cost of damage caused by public disorder in August 2011.

Damian Green: There is no estimate yet for the total cost of damage resulting from the disturbances in August 2011.

Crime

Clive Efford: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department how many (a) murders and (b) sexual offences recorded in each police force area in the last 12 months have not yet resulted in a conviction; and if she will make a statement.

James Brokenshire: Available homicide data are collected by the Home Office from police forces in England and Wales and have been extracted from the Homicide Index. Table A shows the number of offences recorded as homicide (murder, manslaughter and infanticide) in 2009-10 for which no-one has been convicted. It is not possible to separately identify those offences recorded as murder.
	Data are as at 28 September 2010 and subject to revision as cases are dealt with by the police and by the courts, or as further information becomes available. This is particularly the case for 2009-10 data given the time it can take to bring suspects to trial.
	The data include cases for which: the principal suspect committed suicide or died before proceedings could be initiated or before proceedings could be concluded; the suspect was found to be insane; all suspects were acquitted and police investigations are continuing; and, no suspects have been charged.
	Although provisional homicide data for 2010-11 were published in “Crime in England and Wales” 2010-11 on 14 July 2011, these figures do not include convictions data. A first analysis of 2010-11 homicide data including convictions will be available in January 2012.
	Data on police recorded sexual offences are collected by the Home Office. The data relating to police recorded sexual offences for 2010-11 are provided in Table B. Data relating to conviction status is not available.
	Data on reported sexual offences which have not yet resulted in convictions are not available centrally. The Ministry of Justice collects data on convictions for sexual offences but these data are published on a calendar year basis and are counts of persons classified by their principal offence. As such, convictions data cannot be linked to police recorded crime data to track individual offences through to their outcome at court.
	
		
			 Table A: Offences  (1)   currently recorded by the police as homicide  (2)   not resulting in conviction  (3)  : police forces in England and Wales, 2009-10  (4) 
			 Force Total offences Offences with no conviction  (3) Proportion (percentage) 
			 Avon and Somerset 16 10 63 
			 Bedfordshire 6 6 100 
			 British Transport Police 2 2 100 
			 Cambridgeshire 8 3 38 
			 Cheshire 8 7 88 
			 Cleveland 6 5 83 
			 Cumbria — — — 
			 Derbyshire 2 — — 
			 Devon and Cornwall 16 15 94 
			 Dorset 5 2 40 
			 Durham 10 8 80 
			 Dyfed Powys 2 — — 
			 Essex 10 7 70 
			 Gloucestershire 4 1 25 
			 Greater Manchester 35 12 34 
			 Gwent 18 18 100 
			 Hampshire 19 17 89 
			 Hertfordshire 6 5 83 
			 Humberside 13 2 15 
			 Kent 16 16 100 
			 Lancashire 26 11 42 
			 Leicestershire 13 8 62 
			 Lincolnshire 6 5 83 
			 London, City of 2 2 100 
			 Merseyside 21 20 95 
			 Metropolitan Police 120 91 76 
			 Norfolk 7 4 57 
			 North Wales 7 3 43 
			 North Yorkshire 6 6 100 
			 Northamptonshire 5 4 80 
			 Northumbria 14 12 86 
			 Nottinghamshire 15 14 93 
			 South Wales 16 7 44 
			 South Yorkshire 12 8 67 
			 Staffordshire 13 10 77 
			 Suffolk 10 3 30 
			 Surrey 8 7 88 
			 Sussex 13 9 69 
			 Thames Valley 14 13 93 
			 Warwickshire 11 10 91 
			 West Mercia 15 10 67 
			 West Midlands 27 17 63 
			 West Yorkshire 32 17 53 
			 Wiltshire 4 3 75 
		
	
	
		
			 England and Wales 619 430 69 
			 (1) As at 28 September 2010; figures are subject to revision as cases are dealt with by the police and by the courts, or as further information becomes available. (2) Offences recorded as murder, manslaughter or infanticide. (3) Includes cases with outcome of: court proceedings pending; suspect found by court to be insane, suspect died/committed suicide before proceedings were initiated or could be concluded; all suspects acquitted; no suspects charged. (4) Offences are shown according to the year in which they were initially recorded as homicide. This is not necessarily the year in which the incident took place or the year in which any court decision was made. 
		
	
	
		
			 Table B: Sexual offences recorded by police forces in England and Wales, 2010-11 
			 Force Total offences 
			 Avon and Somerset 1,521 
			 Bedfordshire 442 
			 British Transport Police 720 
			 Cambridgeshire 771 
			 Cheshire 741 
			 Cleveland 562 
			 Cumbria 391 
			 Derbyshire 1,153 
			 Devon and Cornwall 1,695 
			 Dorset 775 
			 Durham 477 
			 Dyfed Powys 405 
			 Essex 1,440 
			 Gloucestershire 531 
			 Greater Manchester 2,881 
			 Gwent 555 
			 Hampshire 2,109 
			 Hertfordshire 653 
			 Humberside 1,263 
			 Kent 1,402 
			 Lancashire 1,505 
			 Leicestershire 1,045 
			 Lincolnshire 718 
			 London, City of 39 
			 Merseyside 1,130 
			 Metropolitan Police 10,230 
			 Norfolk 743 
			 North Wales 786 
			 North Yorkshire 1,090 
			 Northamptonshire 653 
			 Northumbria 591 
			 Nottinghamshire 1,107 
			 South Wales 831 
			 South Yorkshire 906 
			 Staffordshire 1,004 
			 Suffolk 705 
			 Surrey 785 
			 Sussex 1,467 
			 Thames Valley 2,195 
			 Warwickshire 472 
			 West Mercia 1,206 
			 West Midlands 2,707 
			 West Yorkshire 1,970 
			 Wiltshire 610 
			 England and Wales 54,982

Crossbows

Shaun Woodward: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department how many incidents involving crossbows were recorded by the Police in (a) St Helens, (b) Merseyside and (c) England in each of the last 10 years.

Nick Herbert: The information requested is not available centrally. Offences involving crossbows cannot be identified in the recorded crime statistics.

Departmental Compensation

Richard Fuller: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department pursuant to the answer of 22 March 2011, Official Report, column 933W, on departmental compensation, what steps she is taking to reduce the level of special payments, including compensation to the public, made by her Department and the non-departmental public bodies for which she is responsible.

Damian Green: The Home Office is taking active steps to reduce the cost of special payments, which include compensation payments and legal costs, and arise principally from immigration and detention legal challenges.
	The UK Border Agency has, for example, set up a Litigation Strategy Board, which meets monthly to review litigation risks, to ensure ownership of significant legal challenges and that appropriate strategies are in place for managing new areas of challenge. The board has driven the implementation of new processes to manage more routine, high volume litigation at lower cost, and early identification of potential litigation risks. It also works to increase awareness of legal risks in policy development and improve the information and guidance available.

Departmental Procurement

Owen Smith: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what methodology (a) her Department and (b) the non-departmental public bodies for which she is responsible used to estimate savings to the public purse made in respect of its procurement and purchasing since May 2010.

Damian Green: Since May 2010, the Home Office, its agencies and non-departmental public bodies have estimated procurement and purchasing value for money savings in line with the Office of Government Commerce (now the Efficiency and Reform Group, Cabinet Office) methodology.

Departmental Telephone Services

Nia Griffith: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department how much funding she has allocated to each telephone helpline operated by her Department in 2011-12; and what the purpose is of each such helpline.

Damian Green: The Secretary of State for the Home Department, my right hon. Friend the Member for Maidenhead (Mrs May), has allocated £8,923,733 to helplines operated by the Home Department in 2011-12. The following table provides a summary of the amount allocated and the purpose of each helpline.
	
		
			 Helpline Purpose of helpline 2011-12 total budget (£000) 
			 UKBA   
			 Immigration Enquiry Bureau—Croydon Contact Centre Provides information about requirements regarding permission to stay and settle in the United Kingdom for those subject to immigration control. This Contact Centre also offers a Public Enquiry Office (PEO) appointment booking service for customers who have been unable to book an appointment online 2,404 
			 The Sponsorship and Employers Helpline—Sheffield Contact Centre Provides information for employers and education providers about sponsorship under the points based system, advice to employers about preventing illegal working and an e-mail service to employers who want to verify the entitlement to work for people awaiting the outcome of an application. The Contact Centre also provides information about Bulgarian and Romanian work permits and accession worker cards 1,176 
			 The Nationality Contact Centre—Liverpool Contact Centre Provides information about British citizenship. The Contact Centre also answers general enquiries from supported asylum seekers in relation to their weekly cash support, accommodation or emergency cash payments 736 
			 Total 2011-12 UKBA funding  4,316 
			    
			 IPS   
			 General Register Office First Point of Contact The General Register Office Advice Line provides advice in respect of birth, marriage and death registrations and certificate issues; services are provided by Identity and Passport Service staff 2,100 
			 The Customer Enquiry Centres (CECs) Customer Enquiry service provided by Identity and Passport Service staff, 1,800 
			 Total 2011-12 IPS funding  3,900 
		
	
	
		
			    
			 NFA   
			 Action Fraud, the national fraud reporting centre Action Fraud, the national fraud reporting centre run by the National Fraud Authority, operates a fraud reporting telephone line as part of its service to collect fraud reports on behalf of the Police 708 
			    
			 Total Home Office funding  8,924

Departmental Work Experience

Bridget Phillipson: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department pursuant to the answer to the hon. Member for Liverpool, Wavertree (Luciana Berger) of 17 November 2010, Official Report, columns 811-13W, on departmental work experience, what the beginning and end dates of each internship were; how many weeks each intern worked in the Department; how many hours were worked by each intern per week; whether each intern worked fixed hours; what the recruitment process was for each vacancy; and where the positions were advertised.

Damian Green: The following table lists the beginning and end dates of each internship; how many weeks each intern worked in the Home Office; how many hours were worked by each intern per week; and whether each intern worked fixed hours.
	Internships for sandwich course students are advertised through fair and open competition to universities offering relevant degree courses.
	The Fast Stream summer placements were advertised through the Cabinet Office at:
	www.faststream.gov.uk
	The Windsor Fellowship Programme is advertised by the Cabinet Office at:
	www.windsor-fellowship.org
	In Annex A we have redacted figures less than five to prevent disclosure of personally sensitive information and the potential identification of small groups or individuals. Supplying these figures would contravene the Department's policy on statistical disclosure control, implementing the Statistics and Registration Act 2007 and the Data Protection Act.
	
		
			 Table A 
			 Start date End Date Number of weeks Number of staff Number of hours per week Number of hours per day 
			 Sandwich students      
			 26 July 2010 25 June 2011 48 Less than 5 37 7.24 
			 2 August 2010 2 July 2011 48 Less than 5 37 7.24 
			 9 August 2010 9 July 2011 48 Less than 5 37 7.24 
			 6 August 2010 7 July 2011 48 Less than 5 37 7.24 
			 16 August 2010 16 July 2011 48 Less than 5 37 7.24 
			 17 August 2010 16 July 2011 48 Less than 5 37 7.24 
			 23 August 2010 23 July 2011 48 Less than 5 37 7.24 
		
	
	
		
			 25 August 2010 23 July 2011 48 Less than 5 37 7.24 
			 15 June 2009 2 October 2009 16 Less than 5 37 7.24 
			 15 June 2009 14 May 2010 48 Less than 5 36 7.12 
			 13 July 2009 11 June 2011 48 Less than 5 37 7.24 
			 13 July 2009 12 July 2011 48 Less than 5 36 7.12 
			 20 July 2009 19 June 2011 48 Less than 5 37 7.24 
			 20 July 2009 20 June 2011 48 Less than 5 37 7.24 
			 13 July 2009 13 June 2010 48 Less than 5 37 7.24 
			 29 July 2009 29 June 2010 48 Less than 5 37 7.24 
			 10 August 2009 10 July 2010 48 Less than 5 36 7.12 
			 17 August 2009 16 July 2010 48 Less than 5 37 7.24 
			 18 August 2009 16 July 2010 48 Less than 5 36 7.12 
			 24 August 2009 23 July 2010 48 Less than 5 37 7.24 
			 1 September 2009 31 July 2010 48 Less than 5 36 7.12 
			 26 October 2009 20 August 2010 43 Less than 5 36 7.12 
			       
			 Graduate Fast Stream Programme      
			 21 June 2010 30 July 2010 6 Less than 5 36 7.12 
			 21 June 2010 6 August 2010 7 Less than 5 36 7.12 
			 28 June 2010 20 August 2010 8 15 36 7.12 
			 28 June 2010 27 August 2010 9 Less than 5 36 7.12 
			 28 June 2010 10 September 2010 11 Less than 5 36 7.12 
			 5 July 2010 27 August 2010 11 5 36 7.12 
			 19 July 2010 10 September 2010 11 Less than 5 36 7.12

Departmental Work Experience

Bridget Phillipson: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department how many (a) persons undertaking unpaid work experience, (b) unpaid interns and (c) other persons in unpaid positions were working in her Department as of 1 July 2011.

Damian Green: The Home Office does not centrally hold data on the number of persons undertaking unpaid work experience. As at 1 July 2011 only paid interns were working in the Department.

Deportation

Stewart Jackson: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department how many citizens of other EU member states normally resident in the Peterborough city council area were not (a) in employment, (b) looking for employment and (c) in education and have been removed by the UK Border Agency in each month since May 2010; and if she will make a statement.

Damian Green: Since the UK Border Agency EU rough sleepers pilot began in March 2010 there have been 39 enforced removals. All those removed had no fixed abode and were not in employment or studying. A further 100 have taken advantage of the reconnection service provided by Peterborough city council and returned to their country of origin voluntarily after being encountered by UK Border Agency and served a “minded to remove” letter.

Detention Centres

Andrew Smith: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what the proposed (a) locations and (b) operational dates are of the reception and removal centres to be established in Turkey under twinning arrangements with the UK Border Agency; and if she will make a statement.

Damian Green: Turkey has proposed the seven new Reception, Screening and Application (RSA) centres for asylum seekers and refugees will be near the cities of Ankara, Erzurum, Gaziantep, Izmir, Kayseri, Kirklareli and Van. The proposed sites of the two new removal centres for illegal migrants will be Ankara and Erzurum co-located with the RSA centres. Turkey has yet to finalise all the details regarding construction of the centres, which has not yet commenced, so the precise operational dates are not known, but it is not expected that any will be operational before 2013.
	The Secretary of State for the Home Department does not intend to make a statement on this issue at this juncture.

Detention Centres

Andrew Smith: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department how many UK Border Agency staff are working on the projects to establish reception and removal centres in Turkey under twinning arrangements.

Damian Green: The UK Border Agency (UKBA) has been involved in two EU Twinning Projects on reception and removal centres in Turkey. At the present time UKBA has two staff dedicated to two projects. In addition the UK Border Agency has also provided 15 different short term UKBA staff to support these projects from an expert perspective.

Detention Centres

Andrew Smith: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what involvement the UK Border Agency will have in (a) training staff and (b) managing reception and removal centres to be established in Turkey under twinning arrangements.

Damian Green: The UK Border along with our Greek (on the removal centres project) and Dutch partners has provided training developed with the Turkish authorities in accordance with the contracts for the respective EU Twinning Projects. The training provided was to the future trainers, staff and managers of the centres. The UK Border Agency will have no involvement in the managing of the reception and removal centres in Turkey.

Detention Centres

Andrew Smith: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether those to be detained in reception and removal centres to be established in Turkey under twinning arrangements with the UK Border Agency will include (a) families with children and (b) unaccompanied minors.

Damian Green: Illegal migrants including families with children are likely to be within the scope of being detained in the Removal Centres for Illegal Migrants. The reception, screening and accommodation centres for asylum seekers and refugees are not detention facilities and those accommodated there will be free to interact with the local population. Unaccompanied minors in Turkey fall under the responsibility of the Social Service and Child Protection Agency of the Prime Ministry and will not routinely be accommodated in these facilities.

Detention Centres

Andrew Smith: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether the projects to establish reception and removal centres in Turkey under twinning arrangements with the UK Border Agency have been or will be subject to approval by (a) Parliament and (b) the European Parliament.

Damian Green: The participation of the UK Border Agency in these two EU Twinning Projects does not require parliamentary approval.
	All candidate countries seeking to join the European Union are eligible to request capacity building projects under the provisions of Twinning. As such approval by the European Parliament is not required for each requirements document which is developed by the beneficiary country in consultation with the EU delegation in situ.

Detention Centres

Andrew Smith: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what the maximum time limit for detention will be in the removal centres to be established in Turkey under a twinning project with the UK Border Agency.

Damian Green: The maximum time limit for detention in the removal centres will be determined by new national legislation which is currently being drafted by the Turkish authorities before being presented before their Parliament. Full consultation with the member state partner countries of both removal and reception centres Twinning Projects and with the European Commission has been undertaken by Turkey during this process with a view to alignment with the EU law requirements.

Detention Centres

Andrew Smith: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what health, education, legal advice and counselling services will be required to be provided by new reception and removal centres established in Turkey under twinning arrangements with the UK Border Agency; and whether any decisions have been taken on the providers of such services.

Damian Green: New national legislation currently being drafted by the Turkish authorities before being presented before their Parliament is likely to encompass the requirements for health, education, legal advice and counselling services within the reception and removal centres. Full consultation with the member state partner countries of both removal and reception centres Twinning Projects and with the European Commission has been undertaken by Turkey during this process with a view to alignment with the EU law requirements in these areas. However, as far as we are aware the Turkish authorities have made no decisions as to who these providers will be or the anticipated level of provision of these services.

Drugs: Ion Spectrometry Technology

Clive Efford: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what her Department's policy is on the distribution of ion spectrometry technology in the detection of drugs and explosive traces; how many such devices have been issued to police forces in the last year; and if she will make a statement.

James Brokenshire: Equipment for the detection of traces of drugs or explosives is widely used by UK police forces. Such equipment, which includes devices based on ion mobility spectrometry technology, is purchased independently by individual forces. It is not purchased or distributed centrally. There is no requirement for forces to notify a central point of contact when such equipment has been purchased or issued.

European Union

Charles Kennedy: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what third pillar EU measures for which her Department is responsible have not yet been implemented; when they will be implemented; and if she will make a statement.

James Brokenshire: There are around 80 to 90 Acts currently in force that were adopted before 1 December 2009 under the Police and Criminal Judicial Co-operation chapter (Title VI) of the Treaty on the European Union. This list is subject to change as Acts are repealed and replaced or amended by new instruments. Approximately two thirds of these are the responsibility of the Home Office and a majority have been fully or partially implemented.
	Article 10 of the Protocol on Transitional Provisions (Protocol 36) to the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union and to the Treaty on European Union applies to these Acts, under which the UK has the right to opt out (en bloc) from all these measures in 2014 when they will become subject to the jurisdiction of the European Court of Justice. The UK must decide whether or not to opt out by 31 May 2014. The Government are therefore considering the implementation of the remaining measures in light of the wider process for making that decision. In accordance with the Minister for Europe's written ministerial statement on 20 January 2011, Parliament will be kept informed of developments.

Europol

Stephen Gilbert: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department how many convictions there were in the UK resulting from a Europol operation in each year since Europol became operational; what the offence was in each case; and if she will make a statement.

Nick Herbert: Europol does not undertake operational activity itself. It acts as a conduit for the secure exchange of information between member states and assists with the co-ordination of investigations when requested by member states. It also provides analytical support at the request of member states.
	Any investigation remains the responsibility of the investigating member state and it is therefore not possible to provide information on the number of convictions in the UK resulting from Europol activity in each year since Europol's inception.

Forensic Science Service

Greg Knight: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what steps she plans to take to ensure that the closure of the Forensic Science Service does not adversely affect the gathering of forensic evidence.

Lynne Featherstone: The closure of the Forensic Science Service (FSS) does not affect the gathering of forensic evidence as this is an activity predominantly carried out by police forces to submit for examination and analysis. The continuity of service to the Criminal Justice System remains our primary objective during the wind down of the FSS.

Government Authorised Exchange Medical Training Initiative

Peter Bottomley: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what representations she has received from consultant doctors on the Government Authorised Exchange Medical Training Initiative (GAE MTI); what discussions her Department has held with the Royal College of Anaesthetists on the contribution of overseas trainees to (a) filling gaps, (b) reducing the level of locum cover and (c) avoiding the cancellation of training activity; how the MTI is regulated; whether she has received reports of any misuse of the initiative; and if she will allow Sri Lankan trainees to come for the two years overseas period their government requires for a consultant appointment.

Damian Green: The Government are committed to reducing net migration to the United Kingdom. This requires action across all immigration routes of entry. Against that background, the consultation document ‘Employment-Related Settlement, Tier 5 and Overseas Domestic Workers’, published on 9 June, sets out proposed changes to Tier 5. This includes a proposal to cap leave across the Tier 5 Temporary Worker route, which includes Government Authorised Exchange schemes, of which the Medical Training Initiative is one. The purpose of the consultation is to invite views on this proposal. The consultation closes on 9 September.
	A decision on the way forward will be assessed in the light of responses to the consultation, including those from the Royal Colleges.

Larne House Residential Detention Facility

Christopher Pincher: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what the development costs are for the UK Border Agency's Larne House residential detention facility; and what the estimated annual operating costs for this facility are.

Damian Green: The contracted development costs for Larne House are £812,173.65 excluding VAT. The final invoice has not yet been received, but the cost has been confirmed by the contractor as within budget.
	The annual operating cost for Larne House will be around £1.479 million excluding VAT. The costs include those of the operating contract (including 24 hour healthcare), lease of the building, rates, security and utilities.

Legal Aid Scheme: Reform

Catherine McKinnell: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether she has made an assessment of the likely effect of the Government's proposed reforms of civil legal aid on the work of the Sojourner Project; and if she will make a statement.

Damian Green: We are working closely with the Ministry of Justice to ensure that the needs of those involved in the Sojourner Project are taken into account in the development of the legal aid reform programme. The Under-Secretary of State for Justice, my hon. Friend the Member for Huntingdon (Mr Djanogly) announced to the Public Bill Committee on the Legal Aid, Sentencing and Punishment of Offenders Bill on 19 July that the Government intend to table an amendment in relation to cases arising under the immigration domestic violence rule, so that they will remain within the scope of civil legal aid.

Licensing

Andrew Bridgen: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether she has plans to review the effectiveness of the implementation of the Licensing Act 2003 in ensuring consistent application of licensing powers across the country.

James Brokenshire: The Licensing Act 2003 gives powers to local authorities to make licensing decisions that reflect the needs of their local communities. Reflecting those needs means that there will be variations between communities. Last summer the Home Office consulted on empowering individuals, families and local communities to shape and determine local licensing. Those proposals are now being taken forward through measures in the Police Reform and Social Responsibility Bill.

Licensing laws

Andrew Griffiths: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether her proposed exemption from regulation for micro-businesses will include exemption from the late night levy.

Lynne Featherstone: The late night levy is a power of taxation, not a new regulation. On this basis, the exemptions for micro and start-up businesses will not apply to the late night levy.

Members: Correspondence

Graham Evans: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department when she plans to respond to the letters from the hon. Member for Weaver Vale of (a) 1 March 2011 and (b) 2 June 2011 on behalf of Mrs Andrea Quinton.

Nick Herbert: A reply has been sent to my hon. Friend.

Members: Correspondence

Catherine McKinnell: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department when the Minister of State for Policing and Criminal Justice plans to reply to the letter from the hon. Member for Newcastle Upon Tyne North of 19 April 2011, on the Winsor Review and a Royal Commission on Policing.

Nick Herbert: A reply has been sent to the hon. Member.

North Yorkshire Police

Hugh Bayley: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department how many police officers of each rank and grade were employed by North Yorkshire Police on (a) 31 March 2010, (b) 30 September 2010 and (c) 31 March 2011; and how many she expects to be employed in North Yorkshire at each rank and grade on 31 March (i) 2012, (ii) 2013 and (iii) 2014.

Nick Herbert: The available information shows the number of police officers employed in North Yorkshire police, by rank, as at 31 March 2010, 30 September 2010 and 31 March 2011. Decisions around the size and deployment of the police work force are a matter for chief constables to take locally in conjunction with their police authority and, from next year, their elected police and crime commissioners (PCCs); therefore estimates for the number of police officers for 2011-12, 2012-13 and 2013-14 are not available centrally.
	
		
			 The number of police officers employed in North Yorkshire police, by rank, as at 31 March 2010, 30 September 2010 and 31 March 2011  (1) 
			  ACPO rank Chief Superintendent Superintendent Chief Inspector Inspector Sergeant Constable Total police officers 
			 2010         
			 31 March 4 5 10 16 83 250 1.118 1,486 
			 30 September 4 4 10 16 85 207 1.126 1,452 
			          
			 2011         
			 31 March 3 6 10 18 76 241 1,104 1,458 
			 (1) This table contains full-time equivalent figures mat have been rounded to the nearest whole number.

Parliament Square

David Amess: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what recent discussions she has had with the Mayor of London on removal of (a) tents and (b) other objects located on the pavements of Parliament Square; and if she will make a statement.

Nick Herbert: The Government continue to work closely with the Greater London Authority, Westminster city council and the Metropolitan Police Service on the measures the Government are bringing forward in the Police Reform and Social Responsibility Bill to prevent the erection of tents and to deal with other disruptive activities on Parliament Square in a targeted, proportionate and enforceable way.

Police

Gareth Thomas: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department how many (a) police officers and (b) police community support officers were serving in the London borough of Harrow on 5 April 2011; and if she will make a statement.

Nick Herbert: The latest available information shows that there were 392 police officers and 99 police community support officers serving in the London borough of Harrow as at 31 March 2011 (full-time equivalents).

Police

Hugh Bayley: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department how many North Yorkshire police officers were deployed in (a) London, (b) Birmingham, (c) Manchester and (d) other places in response to public disorders in August 2011; and how much the police authorities in each of the receiving areas will pay North Yorkshire police for these deployments.

Nick Herbert: This information is not collected centrally by the Home Office.

Police: Ealing

Gareth Thomas: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department how many complaints her Department has received on the performance of police officers based in the London borough of Ealing in each of the last five years; and if she will make a statement.

Nick Herbert: The Home Office does not collect such data.

Police: Ports

Jackie Doyle-Price: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether she plans to bring forward legislative proposals to alter the jurisdiction of port police forces. [R]

Nick Herbert: As I have previously said in correspondence with my hon. Friend, officials at the Home Office and the Department for Transport are exploring a range of potential legislative options to address the issues that she has raised around the jurisdiction of port police forces.

Speed Limits: Cameras

Greg Knight: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what type testing has been carried out on the super speed camera or TruCam; what plans she has for its future use; and if she will make a statement.

Nick Herbert: For reasons of commercial confidentiality the Home Office does not comment on individual devices that may or may not be going through the type approval process. All devices submitted to the process undergo tests of their compliance with HO prescribed standards and field tests with the police as to their operational practicality. Once a device has been type approved, it is an operational matter for the police how they use it.

Telephone Tapping

Nick Smith: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department if she will discuss with the Metropolitan police (a) the allocation of (i) staff and (ii) financial resources to Operation Weeting and (b) the rate at which the operation is contacting potential victims of telephone hacking.

Nick Herbert: The resourcing and conduct of the investigation are operational matters for the Metropolitan Police Service. The Prime Minister has told Parliament that he has been assured that Operation Weeting is fully resourced.

Theft: Metals

Bridget Phillipson: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what assessment her Department has made of the risks to the critical national infrastructure from metal thieves.

James Brokenshire: The Home Office is working with other Government Departments to assess the impact of metal theft on communities, businesses and the national infrastructure, and to develop a range of potential solutions.

Theft: Metals

Bridget Phillipson: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department pursuant to the answer to the hon. Member for Tynemouth of 30 March 2011, Official Report, column 371W, on metals: sales, what progress she has made in exploring with the Association of Chief Police Officers Conductive Metal Theft Working Group the feasibility of introducing a non-statutory cashless trading model for scrap metal dealers.

James Brokenshire: Discussions are continuing with the scrap metal trade, the police and other Government Departments to develop a range of potential solutions to tackle the theft of metal.

Warwickshire Police Authority

Chris White: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what funding her Department provided to Warwickshire Police Authority in each year since 2005.

Nick Herbert: The funding provided to Warwickshire for the years 2005-06 to 2011-12 is set out in the following table.
	
		
			 Home Office funding for Warwickshire 2005-06 to 2010-11 
			  Core Home Office funding (£) 
			 2005-06 30,620,500 
			 2006-07 31,947,346 
			 2007-08 32,748,367 
			 2008-09 33,185,839 
			 2009-10 34,143,978 
			 2010-11 34,361,644 
			 2011-12 35,185,705 
		
	
	These figures do not include grants from the Department for Communities and Local Government or funding relating to counter-terrorism.

Warwickshire Police Authority

Chris White: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what the costs of administration were of the Warwickshire Police Authority in each year since 2005.

Nick Herbert: The internal running costs of the Warwickshire Police Authority are not collected centrally. However, these data are available at:
	http://www.warwickshire.police.uk/pubscheme2009/Publicationscheme09/whatspendandhow

Written Questions: Government Responses

Jim Cunningham: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department when she plans to answer question 54715 tabled on 3 May 2011 for answer on 9 May 2011 on categorisation of police functions.

James Brokenshire: I refer the hon. Member to my answer of 18 July 2011, Official Report, column 654W.

DEFENCE

Afghanistan: Peacekeeping Operations

Bob Ainsworth: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence which elements of the Royal Marines are deployed on operations in Afghanistan.

Nick Harvey: I refer the right hon. Member to the statement made by the Secretary of State for Defence, my right hon. Friend the Member for North Somerset (Dr Fox) on 14 December 2010, Official Report, columns 90-93WS.

Air Force: Military Bases

Jim Cunningham: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what assessment his Department has made of the socio-economic effects of his recent announcement on RAF basing.

Liam Fox: In my written ministerial statement of 18 July 2011, Official Report, columns 60-70WS, I set out our strategic long-term direction on Defence basing across the United Kingdom. I said we "recognised that Defence decisions have broader regional, economic and social consequences” and these formed part of the wider Government consideration.
	Comprehensive planning work is now under way to assess in detail the likely socio-economic effects on affected communities across the United Kingdom such as on local schools and housing. This will involve appropriate and necessary engagement with partners such as the relevant local authorities, devolved Administrations, and other Government Departments and agencies. We intend to base our armed forces in a way that is sensitive to economic and social pressures but is consistent with the needs of Defence, our people, and their families.

Armed Forces: Deployment

Bob Ainsworth: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what assessment he has made of the impact of implementation of the proposals contained in the Strategic Defence and Security Review on the (a) size, (b) capability and (c) deployability of 3 Commando Brigade.

Nick Harvey: The reductions in naval manpower announced in the Strategic Defence and Security Review will include a reduction of around 650 in the Royal Marines' headcount. The Royal Marines' 3 Commando Brigade will provide a key element of our high readiness response force. With the Royal Navy's amphibious shipping, 3 Commando Brigade will have strategic reach and will be able to land and sustain from the sea a commando group of up to 1,800 personnel, together with protective vehicles and other equipment. Other elements of the Royal Marines will continue to undertake a wide range of tasks including protecting the nuclear deterrent and contributing to operations against piracy in the Indian Ocean.

Armed Forces: Deployment

Bob Ainsworth: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence 
	(1)  who will lead 3 Commando Brigade following implementation of the proposals in the Strategic Defence and Security Review;
	(2)  what the current state of readiness is of 3 Commando Brigade.

Nick Harvey: We do not disclose specific readiness levels of our units, but by implementing the proposals set out in the Strategic Defence and Security Review, 3 Commando Brigade Royal Marines will continue to provide an agile and capable landing force, led by a Brigadier, based around a Lead Commando Group of up to 1,800 personnel plus enablers.

Astute Class Submarines

Alison Seabeck: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence whether his Department has contingency plans in place for the independence relocation of Astute-class submarines in the event of the devolution of defence policy in Scotland.

Liam Fox: The Ministry of Defence is not spending any of its time or resources planning for the hypothetical situation of an independent Scotland.

Defence Equipment and Support: Recruitment

Anas Sarwar: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what estimate he has made of recruitment and retention rates for Defence Equipment and Support staff based in (a) Glasgow and (b) Bristol. [Official Report, 10 October 2011, Vol. 533, c. 1MC.]

Andrew Robathan: Defence Equipment and Support currently employs around 100 civilian staff in Glasgow and around 5,500 civilian staff at its headquarters in Bristol. The significant difference in numbers means that direct comparisons cannot readily be made. In the year to July 2011, about 2.5% of Bristol staff and about 1% of Glasgow staff left through retirement or resignation compared with around 4.5% for Defence Equipment and Support as a whole.
	The restrictions on recruitment across the whole of the Ministry of Defence mean that there has only been external recruitment into critical or specialised posts. In the year to July 2011, we recruited around 150 new staff in Bristol and none in Glasgow.

Departmental Alcoholic Drinks

Kevan Jones: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what budget his Department plans to allocate to (a) entertainment and (b) the purchase of alcohol in each of the next three years.

Andrew Robathan: We use official entertainment to pursue UK security policy interests, facilitate a wider public understanding of the armed forces, and enhance professional contacts within the UK and with other nations. Expenditure on official entertainment must be modest and is incurred according to business need. Expenditure has shown a significant reduction over the past few years, as illustrated in the following table:
	
		
			  £ million 
			 1997-98 5.0 
			 1998-99 5.6 
			 1999-2000 5.5 
			 2000-01 6.0 
			 2001-02 7.2 
			 2002-03 7.3 
			 2003-04 8.0 
			 2004-05 6.5 
			 2005-06 5.4 
		
	
	
		
			 2006-07 43 
			 2007-08 4.2 
			 2008-09 4.3 
			 2009-10 3.8 
			 2010-11 1.8 
		
	
	While current planned annual expenditure stands at some £3 million over the next three years, we expect actual expenditure to remain low as we continue to restrain this business activity.
	There is no separate forecast for alcohol. The provision of alcohol at public expense must be in moderation and the circumstances in which alcohol may be offered is constrained.

Departmental Assets

James Arbuthnot: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence whether a data standard is used to identify his Department's assets; and if he will publish any such standard.

Peter Luff: The Ministry of Defence uses data standards to identify both its non-current assets, formerly referred to as fixed assets, and its inventory assets. This information is contained within Joint Services Publications (JSPs) 472 (Financial Accounting and Reporting Manual) and 886 (Inventory Management), which are available on the internet, at the following addresses:
	JSP 472 — Annex 8
	http://www.mod.uk/DefenceInternet/AboutDefence/CorporatePublications/FinanceandProcurementPublications/FinancialJSPs/Jsp472ResourceAccountsPolicyManual.htm
	JSP 886—Volume 2 Inventory Management Part 6 —Financial Accounting for Inventory—Page 8
	http://www.mod.uk/NR/rdonlyres/188EDF70-6F1E-48FE-A24C-C304698FC270/0/JSP886_Vol2_Pt6_FinancialAcc091209 V1_2.pdf

Departmental Freedom of Information

Tom Watson: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what recent discussions he has had with the Information Commissioner's Office on steps to improve his Department's performance in responding to requests made under the Freedom of Information Act 2000.

Andrew Robathan: The Secretary of State for Defence, my right hon. Friend the Member for North Somerset (Dr Fox), has not discussed the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) 2000 with the Information Commissioner's Office (ICO).
	The Ministry of Defence (MOD)'s Permanent Under-Secretary met the Information Commissioner on 22 June 2011 having previously signed an undertaking to improve the MOD's performance in dealing with requests for information under FOIA. The undertaking is available on the ICO website at the following address:
	http://www.ico.gov.uk/what_we_cover/promoting_openness/~/media/documents/library/Freedom_of_Information/Notices/mod_foi_undertaking.ashx

Departmental Manpower

Andrew Griffiths: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence pursuant to his oral statement of 18 July 2011, Official Report, columns 643-62, on defence transformation, what he expects the ratio of staff of his Department to full-time military personnel to be after the implementation of his proposed changes.

Liam Fox: The ratio of Ministry of Defence civilian staff to full time trained service personnel in 2010, and expected ratios for 2015 and 2020 are as follows:
	
		
			  Ratio of civilian to service personnel 
			 2010 1:2.1 
			 2015 1:2.6 
			 2020 1:2.7

Departmental Official Cars

Stephen Williams: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what the cost to his Department was of the provision of ministerial cars in each financial year between 2000-01 and 2010-11; how many (a) cars for the exclusive use of Ministers and (b) ministerial car journeys were paid for by his Department in each such year; what the average cost to his Department of a ministerial car journey was in each such year; and what steps his Department has taken to reduce the cost of ministerial cars since his appointment.

Liam Fox: This information is not held in the format requested for all the years. Available information on the provision of official cars for Defence Ministers is as follows:
	
		
			 Financial year Car cost (£) Car numbers 
			 2000-01 191,000 (1)— 
			 2001-02 192,500 (1)— 
			 2002-03 209,000 (1)— 
			 2003-04 142,000 (1)— 
			 2004-05 142,000 (1)— 
			 2005-06 (1)— (1)— 
			 2006-07 (1)— (1)— 
			 2007-08 (1)— (1)— 
			 2008-09 290,100 (2)5 
			 2009-10 324,433 (2)5 
			 2010-11 (3)171,041 (4)0 
			 (1) Not recorded. (2) Four Ministry of Defence (MOD) vehicles and one provided by the Government Car and Despatch Agency. (3) This includes £39,419 for ministerial car services provided by the Government Car and Despatch Agency. (4) The Secretary of State is driven and protected by the Metropolitan Police. Junior Defence Ministers use a central MOD car pool that provides a service to them and to senior military officers and officials working in Main Building. 
		
	
	We do not collect information on individual ministerial car journeys and cannot therefore make estimates of their average cost.
	To reduce costs, the junior Defence Ministers have given up their cars with a dedicated driver and now share pool cars. As a further savings measure, they will use public transport instead of a car where practicable.

Departmental Procurement

Owen Smith: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what methodology (a) his Department and (b) the non-departmental public bodies for which he is responsible used to estimate savings to the public purse made in respect of its procurement and purchasing since May 2010.

Peter Luff: I refer the hon. Member to the answer given by the Chief Secretary to the Treasury, my right hon. Friend the Member for Inverness, Nairn, Badenoch and Strathspey (Danny Alexander), on 15 November 2010, Official Report, columns 615-16W, to the hon. Member for Southport (John Pugh). He said that the Government had announced a more specific and innovative approach to efficiency and reform across the public sector, including:
	a reduction in administration budgets of 34% across the whole of Whitehall and its arm's length bodies saving £5.9 billion a year by 2014-15;
	radically reducing the number of arm's length bodies across government; and
	the Efficiency and Reform Group's tough new efficiency regime which will drive savings in procurement, major projects and estate management;
	and that, in result, Departments would no longer be required to report against the previous Government's efficiency target.
	In August 2011, the Minister for the Cabinet Office and Paymaster General, my right hon. Friend the Member for Horsham (Mr Maude), announced that the Efficiency and Reform Group's new measures had saved £3.75 billion over 2010-11. Ministry of Defence (MOD) savings in the relevant categories were included in the overall figure. The MOD also spends substantial amounts on procuring and purchasing goods and services that are not covered by the Efficiency and Reform Group's regime, particularly the acquisition of military capability. The MOD does not use a set method for estimating savings to the Defence budget from changes to these activities.
	This impact was assessed using methodologies as shown in the following table. The assessment has been independently verified by Government auditors who found the benefits assertions to be fairly calculated and presented.
	
		
			 Activity and calculation method 
			 Area Activity description Evidence   b  ase/Calculation 
			 Consulting Government put in place a moratorium on new consulting spend, and extensions to existing contracts. Where spend was considered operationally critical (for example, where it might put at risk critical services) an exception process existed for Department Ministers to sign off expenditure over £20,000. Savings are calculated by subtracting total departmental reported spend on consultancy for 2010-11 from total departmental reported spend on consultancy for 2009-10. To reduce the risk of costs shifting between categories, we also monitored expenditure on other Professional Services categories, including contingent labour. 
			    
			 Crown commercial Government have renegotiated deals with some of the largest suppliers to government. The method of calculation varies according to the initiative that yields the saving, but was based on cash releasing savings against a baseline of what would have otherwise been spent. This was often price savings against the previous price paid. Savings agreed with suppliers are recorded in memoranda of understanding as guaranteed-in-year or conditional-in-year savings. Realised savings were subsequently tracked back to departmental verification of supplier progress reports. 
			    
			 Contingent Labour Government has significantly cut the number of temporary staff. Savings are calculated by subtracting total departmental reported spend on contingent labour for 10-11 from total departmental reported spend on contingent labour for 2009-10. 
			    
			 Communications Government froze all new marketing spend unless it is an operational necessity. Where spend was proposed, ministerial sign-off was required for £20,000 or above. Calculations compare departmental spend on marketing and advertising through COI for 2010-11 with that for 2009-10. 
			    
			 Centralising procurement Government have started to centralise spend on common goods and services to drive down prices. These savings derive from the 10 categories of expenditure targeted for centralisation, and relate to price savings through increased aggregation. For each initiative, calculations are performed using individual benefit methodologies that set out how savings will be calculated against an 2009-10 price baseline. Evidence is management information provided by suppliers. 
			    
			 ICT We implemented: a) a moratorium on all new ICT spend above £1 million; and b) a review of all ongoing ICT commitments. Departments also reported those projects that were closed before undergoing the review. Calculations are based on departmental reports of spend that has not proceeded. Spend that has not gone ahead in 2010-11 is recorded, as a result of stopping or reducing spend. Further, sustainable savings are targeted through the Government ICT strategy. 
			    
		
	
	
		
			 Major projects We reviewed the Government's biggest projects to see where 2010-11 costs could practically be reduced within contractual constraints, or wasteful projects stopped altogether. We have halted or curtailed spend on four projects: 14-19 Reform—£60 million Identity Cards—£50 million Highways Agency Projects—£54 million Whole Farm—£5 million We have redacted £22 million of potential double counting from these figures, that arises between this work and our supplier renegotiation work stream. £14.9 million arises from the Home Office National Identity Cards and £6.7 million from DEFRA Whole Farm. HMT have provided assurance that the relevant amounts were removed from departmental budgets following the Major Projects related negotiations 
			    
			 Property We put in place national property controls such that signature of new property leases or lease extensions were approved centrally. It has not always been possible to net off all costs associated with vacating buildings. However, we have also not claimed savings in respect of revenue from property disposals. Calculations are property by property based on the amount departments have reported saved through the Government's property database by non-renewal of property leases at lease breaks or upon lease expiry.

Departmental Regulation

Julian Smith: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what process his Department follows for the production of regulatory guidance; and how many officials of his Department were involved in the production of such guidance on the last date for which figures are available.

Andrew Robathan: The Ministry of Defence regularly produces guidance on aspects of legislation which affect the armed forces to ensure that users can be confident they are complying with the law. Such guidance is produced following detailed consultation with interested parties so that it is comprehensive and meets user needs.
	Figures are not available on the number of officials involved in the production of such guidance. However, this would not be their sole responsibility as officials would generally undertake this task as part of their wider duties.

Departmental Work Experience

Bridget Phillipson: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence how many (a) persons undertaking unpaid work experience, (b) unpaid interns and (c) other persons in unpaid positions were working in his Department as of 1 July 2011.

Andrew Robathan: We offer a number of summer diversity internships for undergraduates each year. Full information on this scheme is at:
	www.civilservice.gov.uk/faststream
	The Ministry of Defence does not offer opportunities to undertake unpaid work. Work experience placements are generally short term, most commonly during half term and school holidays, for year 10 and 11 students, college students (17 to 19 years of age) and undergraduates. Information on the numbers of work experience placements offered each year is not held centrally.

European Defence Agency: Manpower

Stephen Gilbert: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what information his Department holds on (a) the number of staff of the European Defence Agency, (b) their nationality and (c) their grade in each year since it became operational; and if he will make a statement.

George Howarth: The Ministry of Defence does not hold employee information for the European Defence Agency (EDA) but the details can be obtained from the agency's financial reports which are published on their website, at the following address:
	http://www.eda.europa.eu/Documents
	The EDA do not, however, release information on the nationality of their employees.
	The agency is comprised of three categories of staff: Temporary Agents (TA) who are paid fully by the agency; Seconded National Experts (SNE), whose salary is paid by the parent nation, and their daily allowance by EDA; and Contract Agents (CA), who are not part of the Staff Establishment Plan, but are paid for by the EDA.
	At present, the EDA employs 122 members of staff of which the UK footprint is currently nine TAs and one SNE.
	The UK successfully secured a freeze on the agency's budget for 2011 and the agency has proposed no further increase for 2012.

European Fighter Aircraft

Jim Cunningham: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence where the Eurofigher Typhoon aircraft will be based; and if he will make a statement.

Peter Luff: Following the outcome of the Basing review which the Secretary of State for Defence, the right hon. Member for North Somerset (Dr Fox), announced to Parliament on 18 July 2011, Official Report, columns 643-45, Typhoon aircraft will move from RAF Leuchars to RAF Lossiemouth. Typhoon aircraft will also continue to be based at RAF Coningsby.

Ex-servicemen: Identity Cards

Gemma Doyle: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence whether he has considered an identity card scheme for veterans; and if he will place in the Library papers relating to plans for any such scheme.

Andrew Robathan: A veteran's identity card was considered by the Task Force on the Military Covenant led by Professor Hew Strachan, who recommended the introduction of a Veterans Privilege Card. The Government's response to this report was published on 16 May 2011, and we announced that will launch a veterans' card which will allow access to commercial discounts and privileges both locally and nationally. This will be linked to the renewal of the Defence Discount Scheme next year.

Ex-servicemen: Military Decorations

Gemma Doyle: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence 
	(1)  what the cost to the public purse was of the veterans lapel badge scheme in each year since its inception;
	(2)  how many veterans lapel badges have been issued under the veterans lapel badge scheme in each region in each year since the scheme's inception.

Andrew Robathan: The following table details the cost to the Ministry of Defence of procuring the veterans' lapel badge since its inception.
	
		
			 Financial year Cost (£000) 
			 2004-05 39 
			 2005-06 0 
			 2006-07 275 
			 2007-08 215 
			 2008-09 184 
			 2009-10 0 
			 2010-11 66 
			 2011-12 0 
			 Notes: 1. Figure for financial year 2011-12 is as at 16 August 2011. 2. Rounding to the nearest thousand has been applied to all figures. 3. The figures do not include staff or postage and packing costs. 
		
	
	Information about the number of veterans' lapel badges by region is not held. As at 27 July 2011, 846,093 veterans' lapel badges have been issued to former members of the armed forces and war widows since the scheme's inception.

Ex-servicemen: Military Decorations

Gemma Doyle: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence whether he has any plans for an award for the spouses of veterans; and if he will make a statement.

Andrew Robathan: The partners of both serving and former service personnel continue to have my deepest respect. They are too often overlooked even though they provide invaluable support and endure demands beyond those encountered by the rest of society. None the less, we have no plans to award formal recognition. Medals are awarded for gallantry, long service, service on qualifying operations, and commemorative purposes. There are no plans to extend eligibility to partners, beyond those medals already awarded posthumously.

Ex-servicemen: Northern Ireland

Gemma Doyle: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what steps his Department has taken and what plans it has to support veterans who have (a) served in Northern Ireland and (b) been affected by terrorism linked to Northern Ireland.

Andrew Robathan: Former members of the armed forces with illness or conditions caused by service in Northern Ireland and elsewhere receive financial support through the Armed Forces Compensation Scheme (AFCS) or the War Pensions Scheme. The Veterans' Welfare Service offers advice to all war pensioners and AFCS recipients and their families for as long as they need it.
	Those who served in the Ulster Defence Regiment or the Royal Irish Regiment (Home Service) and who live in Northern Ireland are able to draw on the Ulster Defence Regiment and Royal Irish Regiment (Home Service) Aftercare Service, funded by the Ministry of Defence (MOD), which provides a one-stop shop for accessing medical and welfare support.
	The MOD is committed to good health and well-being for its personnel both in service and in dealing with any consequences of service once they have left. MOD officials work very closely with the UK Health Departments on issues relating to support to serving and former service personnel, in particular through the Partnership Board which brings together senior officials and medical experts in the MOD and the four UK Health Departments.

Ex-servicemen: Sleeping Rough

Gemma Doyle: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what estimate he has made of the number of people with an armed forces background who have been sleeping rough in each year since 2000; and what proportion of the total number of rough sleepers in each such year that figure represents.

Andrew Robathan: Statistics on the number of people with an armed forces background who have been rough sleeping in the UK are not available. The CHAIN (Combined Homelessness and Information Network) survey funded by the Department for Communities and Local Government has collected data from the London homeless population over the last three financial years. Their statistics show that 2.1%, representing 36 individuals, of those seen rough sleeping in London between 1 April 2010 to 31 March 2011 had previously served in HM armed forces. This compares with 3%, or 57 individuals last financial year, and 4% in 2008-09. We will maintain our relationships with voluntary and community sector organisations to ensure we continue to address the issue of veterans' homelessness.

Medals

James Gray: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence pursuant to the answer of 19 July 2011, Official Report, column 867W, on medals, how often the Polar Medal Assessment Committee meets; and by what means recommendations of suitable recipients of the medal are made to it.

Andrew Robathan: The Polar Medal Assessment Committee meets annually.
	Recommendations for suitable recipients for the medal are made in accordance with the revised Polar Medal Royal Warrant as published on 14 September 1998 in the London Gazette.

Military Aircraft: Helicopters

Stephen Gilbert: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence 
	(1)  how many British helicopter pilots who have received training under the European Defence Agency's Helicopter Initiative have subsequently been deployed in combat roles; and if he will make a statement;
	(2)  how many British helicopter pilots have received training under the European Defence Agency's Helicopter Initiative; and if he will make a statement.

George Howarth: To date, 12 UK helicopter crews have participated in the European Defence Agency (EDA) sponsored helicopter training exercises. These exercises have involved more than 100 UK personnel, including ground crew, and the intention is to deploy them in theatres of operations as part of the normal national rotational cycles. Specific information on the deployment of UK helicopter pilots who have trained through the EDA Helicopter Initiative is not held centrally and could be provided only at disproportionate cost. The EDA do not hold records on the nationality of individuals trained through the initiative, and, therefore the only way to gain the information would be to track individual pilots and seek authorisation for release of information regarding subsequent deployment.

Military Aircrafts

Jonathan Edwards: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence how many complaints his Department has received from each parliamentary constituency in respect of low-flying military aircraft in each of the last 10 years.

Andrew Robathan: The data are not held in the format requested. Complaints about military low flying are recorded by the low flying area in which they occur. Data on the amount of low flying conducted, and the number of complaints received, is published annually to Parliament in “The Pattern of Military Low Flying across the UK”. Since 2009-10 the publication has been retitled as “Military Low Flying in the United Kingdom statistical appendix.”
	Prior to 2006-07, the published figure for complaints was an overall total; however, the complaints database has been analysed to provide figures for each Low Flying Area (LFA) and Tactical Training Area (TTA) since 2004-05. These figures are given in the following tables.
	
		
			 Low Flying Area 
			  2004-05 2005-06 2006-07 2007-08 2008-09 2009-10 2010-11 
			 LFA 1 452 517 516 432 520 561 640 
			 LFA 2 648 684 599 471 360 396 409 
			 LFA 3 21 10 18 7 10 8 19 
			 LFA 4 273 308 384 230 293 430 183 
			 LFA 5 437 289 563 377 393 435 323 
			 LFA 6 261 262 197 201 216 258 195 
			 LFA 7 483 426 455 363 252 305 269 
			 LFA 8 96 87 104 90 77 86 102 
			 LFA 9 175 234 233 183 289 244 262 
			 LFA 10 141 149 141 93 83 116 85 
			 LFA 11 365 342 317 263 179 237 190 
			 LFA 12 112 91 99 65 97 67 59 
			 LFA 13 11 15 32 33 21 31 17 
			 LFA 14 380 479 459 498 283 261 219 
			 LFA 16 109 125 161 145 114 98 107 
			 LFA 17 226 159 173 160 112 135 115 
			 LFA 18 134 162 103 106 99 226 193 
			 LFA 19(1) n/a n/a n/a 0 105 78 27 
			 (1) Northern Ireland (LFA 19) has only been included in the UK Low flying system since the termination of Op Banner; complaint figures have therefore been supplied from 1 August 2008, as flying prior to this was largely deemed to be operational rather than training. 
		
	
	
		
			 Tactical Training Area 
			  2004-05 2005-06 2006-07 2007-08 2008-09 2009-10 2010-11 
			 TTA 7T 20 9 3 6 8 2 7 
			 TTA 14T 12 23 10 8 6 4 2 
			 TTA 20T 151 117 55 29 15 55 23

Military Aircrafts: Farmers

Jonathan Edwards: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence how much his Department paid in compensation to farmers in (a) England, (b) Scotland and (c) Wales for livestock losses attributable to low-flying military aircraft in each year since 2004.

Andrew Robathan: Compensation including legal costs paid for livestock losses attributable to low-flying military aircraft in England, Scotland and Wales in each year since 2004 is provided in the following table:
	
		
			 £ 
			  England Scotland Wales 
			 2004 190,614 41,854 207,325 
			 2005 311,192 13,762 75,426 
			 2006 203,233 33,619 24,902 
			 2007 179,570 7,458 70,546 
			 2008 204,899 10,487 67,827 
			 2009 204,887 6,468 11,265 
			 2010 100,593 3,261 21,845 
		
	
	The figures represent payments in respect of all claims which relate to loss of or injury to animals; the claims data base does not record whether the claimants are farmers.

Military Bases: Security

Dan Byles: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what plans he has to consult on potential changes in high-level security policy and requirements in civil policing of military establishments; and what the timetable is for any consultation.

Andrew Robathan: A consultation process in respect of proposed adjustments to some specific guarding and civil policing policies and requirements began on 5 July. Responses from the relevant staff associations and trade unions have been sought by 16 August 2011.

Strategic Defence and Security Review

Jim Cunningham: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what his policy is on the conduct of five-yearly defence reviews; and if he will make a statement.

Liam Fox: As we set out in the Strategic Defence and Security Review, we are committed to undertake such reviews every five years. The next review is due in 2015.

Strategic Defence and Security Review

Jim Cunningham: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence pursuant to his oral statement of 18 July 2011, Official Report, column 643, on defence transformation, whether personnel serving in (a) Afghanistan and (b) Libya will be affected by the planned reduction in Army personnel by 2020; and if he will make a statement.

Andrew Robathan: Personnel who are on combat operations that qualify for the operational allowance (OA) on 1 September 2011, or are within six months of deploying on an OA earning deployment, or on post operational leave (POL) or accrued rest and recuperation will not be selected for redundancy unless they have volunteered.
	It is too early to say if personnel currently serving in Afghanistan and Libya will be affected by the further reductions in Army personnel by 2020. For future redundancy tranches, personnel on combat operations that qualify for the OA on the date redundancy notifications are made to individuals, or are within six months of deploying on an OA earning deployment, or on POL or accrued rest and recuperation will not be selected for redundancy unless they have volunteered.

Strategic Defence and Security Review

Zac Goldsmith: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence pursuant to the statement of 18 July 2011, Official Report, columns 643-6WS, on defence transformation, whether he has any plans for the reinstatement of gap year commissions.

Andrew Robathan: There are no current plans to re-introduce the gap year commission programme.

Trident

Dan Jarvis: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what his latest estimate is of the cost of replacing Trident.

Nick Harvey: As was explained in the Parliamentary Report “The United Kingdom's Future Nuclear Deterrent: The Submarine Initial Gate” published in May 2011, we assess that the cost of replacing Trident is within the 2006 White Paper estimate of £15 billion to £20 billion at 2006-07 prices.

HEALTH

Abortion

Diane Abbott: To ask the Secretary of State for Health what policy development his Department is undertaking on abortion policy; and what his policy is on the provision of independent counselling for women having an abortion.

Anne Milton: The Department plans to publish a sexual health policy document in autumn this year. The document will set sexual health in the context of health reform and the proposed new commissioning arrangements and will promote the evidence base for improving sexual health, including reducing the number of abortions.
	We are looking to strengthen existing arrangements to offer all women considering an abortion access to independent counselling provided by appropriately qualified individuals. We are drawing up proposals and will consult on the proposals later this year.

Alcoholic Drinks: Misuse

Rushanara Ali: To ask the Secretary of State for Health how many people were treated for alcohol-related illnesses in (a) London and (b) the area covered by NHS East London and the City.

Anne Milton: The information is not collected in the format requested.
	The following table provides the number of finished admission episodes which are estimated to be alcohol related for the London Strategic Health Authority (SHA) area of residence and the primary care trusts (PCTs) of residences within the London SHA area for the year 2009-10.
	Statistics provided are correct as at 25 July 2011.
	
		
			 Number of finished admission episodes which are estimated to be alcohol-related  (1)   for London SHA of residence and PCTs of residence within London SHA  (2,3)   2009-10  (4)  : Activity in English NHS Hospitals and English NHS commissioned activity in the independent sector 
			 SHA/PCT of residence Alcohol related admissions 
			 London SHA 127,509 
			 Barking and Dagenham 3,279 
			 Barnet 5,379 
			 Bexley 3,415 
			 Brent Teaching 4,794 
			 Bromley 5,368 
			 Camden 3,495 
			 City and Hackney Teaching 3,576 
			 Croydon 6,071 
			 Ealing 6,655 
			 Enfield 4,878 
			 Greenwich Teaching 3,258 
			 Hammersmith and Fulham 3,152 
			 Haringey Teaching 3,854 
			 Harrow 3,544 
			 Havering 4,545 
			 Hillingdon 5,399 
			 Hounslow 4,513 
			 Islington 3,705 
			 Kensington and Chelsea 2,235 
			 Kingston 2,344 
			 Lambeth 3,824 
			 Lewisham 4,065 
			 Newham 4,632 
			 Redbridge 4,456 
			 Richmond and Twickenham 2,552 
			 Southwark 3,665 
			 Sutton and Merton 6,135 
			 Tower Hamlets 2,979 
			 Waltham Forest 4,482 
			 Wandsworth 3,812 
			 Westminster 3,447 
			 (1)Alcohol-related admissions The number of alcohol-related admissions is based on the methodology developed by the North West Public Health Observatory (NWPHO), which uses 48 indicators for alcohol-related illnesses, determining the proportion of a wide range of diseases and injuries that can be partly attributed to alcohol as well as those that are, by definition, wholly attributable to alcohol. Further information on these proportions can be found at: http://www.nwph.net/nwpho/publications/AlcoholAttributableFractions.pdf The application of the NWPHO methodology has recently been updated and is now available directly from Hospital Episodes Statistics (HES). Information about episodes estimated to be alcohol related may be slightly different from previously published data. (2) PCT/SHA data quality In July 2006, the NHS reorganised SHAs and PCTs in England from 28 SHAs into 10, and from 303 PCTs into 152. As a result data from 2006-07 onwards are not directly comparable with previous years. Data have been presented for those SHA/PCTs which have valid data for the breakdown presented here. As a result some SHA/PCTs may be missing from the list provided. (3) SHA/PCT/local authority of residence The SHA, PCT or local authority (UK) containing the patient's normal home address. This does not necessarily reflect where the patient was treated as they may have travelled to another area for treatment. (4) Assessing growth through time HES figures are available from 1989-90 onwards. Changes to the figures over time need to be interpreted in the context of improvements in data quality and coverage (particularly in earlier years), improvements in coverage of independent sector activity (particularly from 2006-07) and changes in NHS practice. For example, apparent reductions in activity may be due to a number of procedures which may now be undertaken in outpatient settings and so no longer include in admitted patient HES data. Note: Data quality: HESs are compiled from data sent by more than 300 NHS trusts and PCTs in England and from some independent sector organisations for activity commissioned by the English NHS. The NHS Information Centre for health and social care liaises closely with these organisations to encourage submission of complete and valid data and seeks to minimise inaccuracies. While this brings about improvement over time, some shortcomings remain. Source: Hospital Episode Statistics (HES), The NHS Information Centre for health and social care

Alcoholic Drinks: Misuse

Eleanor Laing: To ask the Secretary of State for Health what changes his Department have made to the number of alcohol-related (a) primary and (b) secondary diagnosis fields in a hospital episode statistics record since 2002-03.

Anne Milton: In 2002-03, Hospital Episode Statistics data included information for up to 14 diagnoses (one primary and 13 secondary) and since 2007-08 it has included information for up to 20 diagnoses (one primary and 19 secondary). This change applied to the whole Hospital Episode Statistics data set. An alcohol-related diagnosis can appear in any of these diagnosis fields.

Alcoholic Drinks: Yorkshire and the Humber

Andrew Jones: To ask the Secretary of State for Health what the cost to the NHS was of alcohol-related admissions in (a) Harrogate and District area and (b) Yorkshire and the Humber in the last 12 months for which figures are available.

Anne Milton: Information is not available in the format requested. Information on the number of finished admission episodes estimated to be wholly, or wholly or partially, alcohol-related for Yorkshire and the Humber Strategic Health Authority (SHA), North Yorkshire and York Primary Care Trust (PCT) and Harrogate Local Authority (LA) for 2009-10 has been provided in the following table. Data relating to costs are not held centrally.
	
		
			 Number of finished admission episodes estimated to be alcohol-related for Yorkshire and the Humber SHA, North Yorkshire and York PCT and Harrogate LA 2009-10: Activity in English national health service hospitals and English NHS commissioned activity in the independent sector 
			  Wholly attributable to alcohol Wholly or partly attributable total 
			 Yorkshire and the Humber SHA of residence 26,685 105,527 
			 North Yorkshire and York PCT 3,119 14,808 
			 Harrogate and district LA 754 3,245 
			 Notes: 1. Alcohol-related admissions: The number of alcohol-related admissions is based on the methodology developed by the North West Public Health Observatory (NWPHO), which uses 48 indicators for alcohol-related illnesses, determining the proportion of a wide range of diseases and injuries that can be partly attributed to alcohol as well as those that are, by definition, wholly attributable to alcohol. Further information on these proportions can be found at: www.nwph.net/nwpho/publications/AlcoholAttributableFractions.pdf The application of the NWPHO methodology has recently been updated and is now available directly from HES. As such, information about episodes estimated to be alcohol related may be slightly different from previously published data. These data should not be described as a count of people as the same person may have been admitted on more than one occasion. 2. SHA/PCT/LA of residence: The SHA or LA of residence is that containing the patient's normal home address. This does not necessarily reflect where patients were treated as they may have travelled to another area for treatment. The number of admission episodes provided for the Yorkshire and the Humber SHA has been obtained by summing the admission episodes for all PCTs within Yorkshire and the Humber SHA. These are: Barnsley PCT; Bradford and Airedale Teaching PCT; Calderdale PCT; Doncaster PCT; East Riding of Yorkshire PCT; Hull Teaching PCT; Kirklees PCT; Leeds PCT; North East Lincolnshire Care Trust Plus; North Lincolnshire PCT; North Yorkshire and York PCT; Rotherham PCT; Sheffield PCT; Wakefield District PCT. 3. Number of episodes in which the patient had an alcohol-related primary or secondary diagnosis: These figures represent the number of episodes where an alcohol-related diagnosis was recorded in any of the 20 (14 from 2002-03 to 2006-07 and seven prior to 2002-03) primary and secondary diagnosis fields in a HES record. Each episode is only counted once in each count, even if an alcohol-related diagnosis is recorded in more than one diagnosis field of the record. 4. Data quality: HES are compiled from data sent by more than 300 NHS trusts and PCTs in England and from some independent sector organisations for activity commissioned by the English NHS. The NHS Information Centre for health and social care liaises closely with these organisations to encourage submission of complete and valid data and seeks to minimise inaccuracies. While this brings about improvement over time, some shortcomings remain. Source: Hospital Episode Statistics (HES), The NHS Information Centre for health and social care

Ambulance Services

Karen Lumley: To ask the Secretary of State for Health what plans his Department has for the future of local ambulance stations.

Simon Burns: The Department does not have any plans to change the future of local ambulance stations. The Department expects each ambulance service to determine locally how best to manage its stations, which take into account the local geographic area, mix and size of fleet and information on demand management.

Autism: Health Services

Graeme Morrice: To ask the Secretary of State for Health what progress has been made in developing a quality standard in respect of autism in children.

Paul Burstow: The National Quality Board launched, on 15 August, an engagement exercise on the library of NICE Quality Standard NHS health care topics. As part of this exercise a proposed library of topics has been published and comments are invited, including comments on the omission or inclusion of certain topics. Within this proposed library of topics for Quality Standards “Autism (adults)” and “Autism (children and young people)” are included. The closing date for this consultation is 14 October 2011. Full details of the consultation and how to submit comments can be found at:
	http://www.nice.org.uk/getinvolved/currentniceconsultations/NQBEngagement.jsp

Autism: Training

Graeme Morrice: To ask the Secretary of State for Health what steps he is taking as part of his Department's proposed health and development review to ensure that health visitors have received training on autism to enable them to identify early signs of the condition.

Anne Milton: The content and standard of health visitor training is the responsibility of the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC).
	As the independent regulatory body, responsible for quality standards in education and practice, the NMC is committed to ensuring high quality patient care is delivered by high quality health professionals.
	In order to achieve the best possible outcomes for training in the identification of autism, for both staff and patients alike the NMC works closely with the higher education sector, service providers and healthcare professionals to ensure their educational programmes produce professionals that have the skills and behaviours required to diagnose the early signs of autism.
	To understand child development and recognise when development is outside of the normal range, health visitors are trained to use tools and checklists to recognise variations that may indicate autism.
	The Health Visitor Implementation Plan 2011-15, “A Call to Action”: sets out the Departments vision to improve the quality of health visiting services for children and families.

Cancer: Drugs

John Baron: To ask the Secretary of State for Health which body will manage the operation of the Cancer Drugs Fund when strategic health authorities are abolished; and if he will make a statement.

Paul Burstow: Arrangements from 1 April 2012 and beyond will be the subject of discussions between the Department and the shadow National Health Service Commissioning Board.

Cancer: Drugs

John Baron: To ask the Secretary of State for Health what plans he has for funds allocated to strategic health authorities through the Cancer Drugs Fund which are not spent at the end of each year that the fund operates.

Simon Burns: The Government are committed to making £200 million available to the national health service for each of the three years of the Cancer Drugs Fund's operation. These funds are available now to enable patients to access the additional cancer drugs their doctors recommend and we are not planning on any other uses for these funds.
	The Department expects strategic health authorities to put plans in place to fund cancer drugs using their appropriate weighted capitation share of the £200 million fund to ensure patients get access to the drugs they need. This is set out in “Guidance to support operation of the Cancer Drugs Fund in 2011-12”.
	A copy of the guidance has already been placed in the Library.

Care Homes: Prescription Drugs

Simon Kirby: To ask the Secretary of State for Health if he will take steps to encourage pharmacists to visit care homes for older people for the purposes of improving knowledge and understanding of medication management.

Simon Burns: The Department is committed to the continuous improvement of the quality of services, including through greater involvement of independent and voluntary providers. While some community pharmacists already provide advisory services to care homes, the Department has commissioned a piece of work between the care home sector, Royal Colleges, the Royal Pharmaceutical Society and other key organisations to look at finding solutions to improve the quality of use of medicines in care homes. We look forward to seeing the output to this important collaborative work, which is due to conclude by the end of the year.

Carers: Young People

Daniel Kawczynski: To ask the Secretary of State for Health what proportion of hospitals have made provision to (a) identify and (b) support young carers in their admission and discharge procedures.

Paul Burstow: This information is not held centrally. However, a whole-family approach in planning services is particularly relevant where young carers are involved. Service users and carers of all ages can benefit from an integrated and holistic approach to providing personalised care and support. Such an approach helps to ensure that admission and discharge plans identify and assess the needs of patients who are parents so they do not have to rely on their children to provide care.
	“Carers and Personalisation—improving outcomes” which the Department of Health published in November 2010, includes good practice guidance on whole family approaches. A copy has already been placed in the Library and is available at:
	www.dh.gov.uk/en/Publicationsandstatistics/Publications/PublicationsPolicyAndGuidance/DH_122076
	The Department also supported the development of “Carers as partners in hospital discharge”, published by the Association of Directors of Adult Social Services in February 2010, which brought together key policy and good practice materials to inform hospital discharge processes. The guidance recognises the importance of the impact of hospital discharge on carers including young carers.
	The Department for Education is also supporting the Children's Society and The Princess Royal Trust for Carers to encourage 'whole family' approaches in supporting young carers.

Dementia

Karen Lumley: To ask the Secretary of State for Health what arrangements his Department plans to put in place to assist people in (a) diagnosing dementia and (b) obtaining information and advice about the condition.

Paul Burstow: Achieving good-quality early diagnosis and intervention for all is one of the Government's four priorities in implementing the National Dementia Strategy. The Department undertook a public awareness campaign in the North West and Yorkshire and Humber national health service regions in March 2011, encouraging people to seek a diagnosis for dementia where they have concerns. The campaign included leaflets available to the general public on the early signs and symptoms of dementia. Consideration is currently being given to rolling out the awareness campaign on a national basis.

Dental Services

Ben Wallace: To ask the Secretary of State for Health what progress he has made on his proposed reforms of NHS dentistry; and if he will make a statement.

Simon Burns: The Government said in the coalition agreement they would replace the existing dental contract with one based on registration, capitation and quality, designed to increase access and promote oral health. The Government made a commitment to establishing pilots to support the development of the new national contract. Pilots are starting over this summer.

Dental Services: North West

Shaun Woodward: To ask the Secretary of State for Health how many dental implants were preformed in the NHS North West heath authority area by (a) the NHS and (b) the private sector in each of the last three years; how many such patients were aged under 18; and if he will make a statement on the criteria for eligibility for dental implants.

Simon Burns: Information is not available in the format requested.
	The “Adult Dental Health Survey” (ADHS) 2009—Summary report and thematic series’ contains limited information on dental implants.
	Table 4.4.5 of theme 4 of the thematic series includes the percentage of adults with at least one dental implant. Information is available by strategic health authority but, due to the limitations of the sample size, is not available at a lower level. The information does not differentiate between national health service and private work. A copy has been placed in the Library.
	The report and thematic series are also available on the NHS Information Centre website at:
	www.ic.nhs.uk/pubs/dentalsurveyfullreport09
	The 2009 ADHS is the fifth in a series of national dental surveys that have been carried out every decade since 1968. Information is, therefore, not available for consecutive years.
	Criteria for eligibility for NHS dental implants are determined by the NHS locally.

Departmental Correspondence

Austin Mitchell: To ask the Secretary of State for Health how many letters his Department received from hon. Members in June 2011.

Simon Burns: Departmental records show that we received 2,122 items of correspondence from hon. Members in June 2011. This figure includes both written and electronic correspondence. This figure represents correspondence received by the Department's central correspondence team only.

Departmental Disclosure of Information

Angie Bray: To ask the Secretary of State for Health what his Department's (a) policy is and (b) procedures are in relation to whistleblowers.

Simon Burns: The Department is committed to achieving the highest possible standards of service and ethical standards in public life.
	The Department's whistleblowing policy was revised in May 2009 and sets out the process for handling whistleblowing within the Department, and also for the handling of similar types of concerns, raised with the Department, about external organisations or individuals.
	A copy of the policy has been placed in the Library.

Departmental Information Officers

Rushanara Ali: To ask the Secretary of State for Health how many press officers his Department employed on (a) 1 February and (b) 1 April 2011.

Simon Burns: The information is not available in the format requested.
	However, as at the end of March 2011, the Department's media centre employed 33 full-time press officers and one part-time press officer, equating to 33.73 full-time equivalent press officers.

Departmental Telephone Services

Nia Griffith: To ask the Secretary of State for Health how much funding he has allocated to each telephone helpline operated by his Department in 2011-12; and what the purpose is of each such helpline.

Simon Burns: The Departments Communication Directorate either runs or promotes the call centres contained in the following table.
	
		
			 Call Centre Purpose of line Budget   (£)  (1) 
			 Carers Direct Advice and support line for carers £1,660,000 
			 Change4Life Offers publications, advice and registration to the Change4Life programme £220,000 
			 DH Order Line Publication order line £120,000(2) 
			 Drink, Drugs and Sexual Health Advice line for adults on drink, drugs and sexual health £1,000,000 
			 European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) Offers an ordering and replacement service as well as advice on the EHIC £1,600,000(2) 
			 Healthy Start Supports the provision of milk and fruit and vegetable vouchers £1,150,000(2) 
			 National Breastfeeding Helpline Offers advice and support on breast feeding £300,000 
			 NHS Careers Offers advice and publications for potential recruits, returners and existing NHS staff £890,000 
			 Tobacco Offers advice and support on smoking cessation £1,380,000 
			 Worth talking about Sexual health advice for teenagers £800,000 
			 (1) All figures are rounded to the nearest £10,000 (2) Estimated budget (the budget for the call centre is part of a wider contract) Notes: 1. As it not always possible to anticipate the demand for the services provided by the above call centres, final spend is often lower than the budget allowed. 2. The budget allowed may include some non-phone line costs such as staff training, data management and fulfilment. 3. The budget allowed will also include some non-voice help offered by the call centre such as text phone use, web chat and e-mail handling. 4. The chart is based on call centres rather than individual phone lines. Most call centres run multiple phone numbers to allow for campaign measurement 
		
	
	The Department does not collect information on the telephone numbers used by national health service organisations. Information about telephone services for these bodies is not held centrally and cannot be provided except at disproportionate cost.
	The Department also supports a range of voluntary, charitable and other organisations to provide services relating to health and healthy living. Some of these organisations may include telephone help lines as part of their services. It is not possible, without incurring disproportionate cost, to identify individual projects with telephone services and their budgets.

Departmental Visits Abroad

Gavin Williamson: To ask the Secretary of State for Health how many overseas visits were made by (a) Ministers, (b) staff and (c) special advisers in his Department between (i) May 2006 and June 2007 and (ii) June 2009 and May 2010; and what the cost to the public purse was of each such visit.

Simon Burns: The information requested could be provided only at disproportionate cost. Details of all ministerial overseas travel is published quarterly in arrears on the Department's website. The latest data up to the end of March 2011 can be found at:
	www.dh.gov.uk/en/Aboutus/MinistersandDepartmentLeaders/Departmentdirectors/DH_110759

Departmental Work Experience

Bridget Phillipson: To ask the Secretary of State for Health how many (a) persons undertaking unpaid work experience, (b) unpaid interns and (c) other persons in unpaid positions were working in his Department as of 1 July 2011.

Simon Burns: The Department actively encourages teams and directorates to offer work experience opportunities and is committed to contributing to the development of students by providing work experience placements. A copy of the Department's work experience policy has been placed in the Library.
	In the main, arrangements for unpaid work experience, interns and others are made by local business units within the Department. Information on all such placements is not held centrally and it would incur disproportionate costs to collect all the information requested.
	In line with our corporate social responsibility agenda, the Department has developed the Building Bridges Programme. The programme provides young people from our local areas with opportunities to experience life in the civil service. This is in order to support and educate the next generation of active citizens and to increase their awareness of government policy-making processes through job shadowing and mentoring. As at 1 July 2011, there were three students placed within the Department by the Building Bridges initiative, a total of eight individuals having been placed in the past two years to date.

Dermatology: General Practitioners

Rosie Cooper: To ask the Secretary of State for Health what training general practitioners are required to have on dermatology at the point of qualification; and whether he plans to request training deaneries to review this requirement with a view to increasing it.

Anne Milton: The content and standard of medical training is the responsibility of the General Medical Council (GMC) which is the competent authority for postgraduate medical training in the United Kingdom.
	The GMC is committed to ensuring that healthcare professionals are equipped with the knowledge, skills and behaviours required to deal with the problems and conditions they will encounter in practice.
	The content of the general practitioner (GP) training curriculum is developed by the Royal College of General Practitioners for approval by the GMC. The GP curriculum includes a section on skin problems. Doctors completing GP training are assessed against all elements in the GP curriculum and should be competent to deliver care against all the competencies described.
	While it is not practicable or desirable for the Government to prescribe the exact training that any individual doctor will receive we are, of course, aware of the need to ensure perceived areas of weakness in training curricula are addressed. For that reason, we are liaising with the GMC and the Academy of Medical Royal Colleges about how best to ensure curricula do meet requirements. The Department has also provided a supporting role in the development of the standards contained in “Quality Standards for Dermatology—Providing the right care for people with skin conditions” recently initiated by the British Association of Dermatologists.

Dermatology: General Practitioners

Rosie Cooper: To ask the Secretary of State for Health what estimate he has made of the proportion of a GP's workload that is dermatology-related; and if he will make a statement.

Paul Burstow: The Department has not given formal consideration to the proportion of a general practitioner's (GP's) work load that is dermatology related.
	We understand from “Skin Conditions in the UK: a Health Care Needs Assessment”, published by the Centre of Evidence Based Dermatology, University of Nottingham (2009), that in 2006 around 24% of the population in England and Wales visited their GP with a skin problem, and that skin conditions are the most frequent reason for people to consult their GP with a new problem.

Disability: Children

David Morris: To ask the Secretary of State for Health what consideration he has given to simplifying the way parents of disabled children arrange care.

Sarah Teather: I have been asked to reply.
	There are currently two broad routes for the arrangement of short breaks care for the parents and carers of disabled children. Firstly, the local authority arranges short breaks care for a family based on their assessment of family need and the availability of resources. Secondly, parents and carers can be provided with a direct payment, a cash payment in lieu of short breaks services, which enables them to arrange their own care.
	This Government are committed to improving access to direct payments for short breaks services. We will test the best ways to support parents to access direct payments through our new Special Educational Needs and Disability Green Paper pathfinders, which will start operating in September of this year.
	Local authorities may have their own arrangements to simplify access to short breaks, including through internet booking systems and 'local offers' where parents can access certain services without assessment.

Doctors

Valerie Vaz: To ask the Secretary of State for Health what plans his Department has to support junior doctors starting work in hospitals in August 2011.

Anne Milton: The Department recognises the importance of effective induction for junior doctors as they start work in hospitals. Responsibility for induction lies with local employers supported by the postgraduate deaneries. NHS Employers also provides an annual publication to introduce all new medical graduates to the national health service.

Electromagnetic Fields: Health Hazards

Greg Knight: To ask the Secretary of State for Health what steps he plans to take in response to the report of the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe on the potential dangers of electromagnetic fields and their effect on the environment.

Anne Milton: United Kingdom policy is that mobile telephones, Wi-Fi and base stations are expected to comply with the 1998 International Commission on Non-Ionising Radiation Protection (ICNIRP) guidelines for public exposure to electromagnetic fields. Along with other member states, the UK supports European Council Recommendation EC 519/1999 on limiting exposures to electromagnetic fields. This recommendation incorporates the 1998 ICNIRP guidelines.

Fats: Health Hazards

Diane Abbott: To ask the Secretary of State for Health what steps he plans to take to reduce the level of transfats in food.

Anne Milton: As part of the Public Health Responsibility Deal, the Department is working in partnership with United Kingdom food businesses to remove artificial trans fatty acids (TFA), from the few foods that still contain them.
	Businesses are pledging to remove artificial TFA from products by the end of 2011. They will achieve this by removing partially hydrogenated vegetable oils (p-HVO) and limiting the levels of artificial TFA in oils and fats used as ingredients or in preparing foods (e.g. frying oils) to a maximum of 2%.
	This voluntary action will help to ensure that intakes of trans fats remain low, and give consumers confidence that artificial trans fats will not be added to foods in the future.

General Practitioners

Catherine McKinnell: To ask the Secretary of State for Health how many (a) female and (b) male GPs have left the national health service in the last 12 months.

Simon Burns: The information requested will be available following publication of the NHS Information Centre General Practice Staff Census in March 2012.

General Practitioners

Catherine McKinnell: To ask the Secretary of State for Health how many GPs there were per head of the population in each primary care trust in (a) Wiltshire, (b) West Mercia and (c) Greater Manchester in each of the last five years.

Simon Burns: Information on the number of general practitioners (GPs) per head of population in Wiltshire, West Mercia and Greater Manchester between 2006 and 2010 is shown in the following tables.
	
		
			  2006 2007 2008 
			  GPs  (2)   headcount GPs  (2)   headcount per 100,000 population GPs  (2)   headcount GPs  (2)   headcount per 100,000 population GPs  (2)   headcount GPs  (2)   headcount per 100,000 population 
			 Wiltshire total 427 66.7 425 65.6 431 65.8 
			 Swindon Primary Care Trust PCT 123 63.3 124 62.8 125 62.1 
			 Wiltshire PCT 304 68.1 301 66.9 306 67.4 
			        
			 West Mercia total 828 70.3 834 70.6 824 69.4 
			 Herefordshire PCT 137 77.2 137 76.9 138 77.1 
			 Shropshire County PCT 205 71.4 203 70.3 206 70.9 
			 Telford And Wrekin PCT 97 60.1 96 59.5 94 58.1 
			 Worcestershire PCT 389 70.6 398 71.9 386 69.5 
			        
			 Greater Manchester total(3) 1,616 62.5 1,646 63.3 1,681 64.3 
			 Ashton, Leigh And Wigan per 171 56.2 180 59.2 184 60.3 
			 Bolton PCT 168 63.9 174 66.2 186 70.5 
			 Bury PCT 119 65.7 106 58.4 109 60.0 
			 Heywood, Middleton and Rochdale PCT 127 62.2 123 60.3 125 61.2 
			 Manchester PCT 306 67.2 315 67.7 322 68.0 
			 Oldham PCT 125 57.4 129 59.2 138 63.3 
			 Salford PCT 154 69.7 158 71.4 158 70.8 
			 Stockport PCT 186 66.0 190 67.4 195 69.0 
			 Tameside and Glossop PCT(3) 131 53.1 134 54.3 128 51.6 
			 Trafford PCT 129 60.7 137 64.2 136 63.6 
		
	
	
		
			  2009 2010  (1) 
			  GPs  (2)   headcount GPs  (2)   headcount per 100,000 population GPs  (2)   headcount GPs  (2)   headcount per 100,000 population 
			 Wiltshire total 445 67.4 459 69.5 
			 Swindon Primary Care Trust PCT 137 67.2 145 71.1 
			 Wiltshire PCT 308 67.5 314 68.8 
			      
			 West Mercia total 834 70.1 840 70.6 
			 Herefordshire PCT 134 74.8 136 75.9 
			 Shropshire County PCT 204 69.9 215 73.7. 
			 Telford And Wrekin PCT 101 62.2 98 60.4 
			 Worcestershire PCT 395 71.0 391 70.3 
			      
			 Greater Manchester total(3) 1,768 67.1 1,791 68.0 
			 Ashton, Leigh And Wigan per 182 59.4 190 62.0 
			 Bolton PCT 199 75.1 210 79.2 
			 Bury PCT 122 66.8 116 63.5 
			 Heywood, Middleton and Rochdale PCT 130 63.5 141 68.9 
			 Manchester PCT 334 69.0 353 73.0 
			 Oldham PCT 145 66.3 143 65.4 
			 Salford PCT 176 78.2 169 75.1 
			 Stockport PCT 195 68.7 193 68.0 
		
	
	
		
			 Tameside and Glossop PCT(3) 145 58.2 147 59.0 
			 Trafford PCT 140 65.0 141 65.5 
			 (1) The new headcount methodology for 2010 data is not fully comparable with previous years data due to improvements that make it a more stringent count of absolute staff numbers. Further information on the headcount methodology is available in the Census publication. Headcount totals are unlikely to equal the sum of components. (2) All GP figures are GPs (excluding retainers and registrars). (3) The PCTs displayed service the 10 districts that constitute Greater Manchester. It should be noted that Glossop is not in Greater Manchester but is part of Tameside and Glossop PCT and cannot be separated. Note: Data as at 30 September for each year. Source: The NHS Information Centre for health and social care General and Personal Medical Services Statistics Office for National Statistics (ONS), 2006-09 Final Mid-Year Population Estimates (2001 census based). Adjusted May 2010 to reflect revisions to migration methodology. 
		
	
	GP per head of population figures have been calculated using ONS resident population estimates.
	The NHS Information Centre for health and social care seeks to minimise inaccuracies and the effect of missing and invalid data but responsibility for data accuracy lies with the organisations providing the data. Methods are continually being updated to improve data quality where changes impact on figures already published. This is assessed but unless it is significant at national level figures are not changed. Impact at detailed or local level is footnoted in relevant analyses.

General Practitioners: Domestic Violence

Catherine McKinnell: To ask the Secretary of State for Health what assessment he has made of the potential effect of the measures in the Health and Social Care Bill on the contribution of GPs to the identification of victims of domestic violence.

Anne Milton: Measures in the Health and Social Care Bill are unlikely to have any direct effect on the role of general practitioners (GPs) in identifying victims of domestic violence, which we expect GPs to continue to undertake.
	We will shortly publish a series of public health reform updates one of which will set out future commissioning responsibilities under the new public health system.

Health Professions: Greater London

Rushanara Ali: To ask the Secretary of State for Health what estimate he has made of the number of health care professionals who will (a) retire, (b) take voluntary redundancy and (c) take involuntary redundancy in (i) London, (ii) the London borough of Tower Hamlets and (iii) Bethnal Green and Bow constituency in the next 12 months.

Simon Burns: This information is not collected centrally. The hon. Member may wish to approach the organisations concerned for the information requested.

Health Professions: Regulation

Emily Thornberry: To ask the Secretary of State for Health 
	(1)  pursuant to the answers of 4 March 2011, Official Report, column 663W, on health professions and of 24 May 2011, Official Report, column 668W, on health professions, regulation, for what reasons the Government will not now be considering a cost-benefit analysis of the statutory regulation of clinical physiologists;
	(2)  what assessment his Department has made of the (a) role of clinical physiologists and (b) risk of harm to patients posed by procedures carried out by clinical physiologists.

Paul Burstow: The Command Paper, “Enabling Excellence”, makes clear that for those groups that have been recommended by the Health Professions Council for statutory regulation in the past, but which are not yet subject to statutory regulation, the assumption is that assured voluntary registration will be the preferred option. This includes clinical physiologists.
	The Council for Healthcare Regulatory Excellence (CHRE) (subject to the passage of the Health and Social Care Bill) will be the national accrediting body for assured voluntary registration. As part of their accreditation process, CHRE, which will be renamed the Professional Standards Authority for Health and Social Care, will set standards against which the governance, procedures, registration criteria and performance of voluntary registers will be judged, to ensure they provide assurance to the public and employers about the training, skills and conduct of their registrants.
	The extension of statutory regulation will be considered only where there is a robust body of evidence to demonstrate that there is a level of risk to the public which warrants the costs imposed on workers and taxpayers by statutory regulation, and which cannot be effectively addressed through assured voluntary registration.

Health Services: Foreign Nationals

Andrew Jones: To ask the Secretary of State for Health what the monetary value of NHS care provided to overseas nationals was in the latest financial year for which figures are available; and how much of the cost has been recouped.

Anne Milton: Entitlement to free national health service hospital treatment is based on residency in the United Kingdom. Some overseas visitors are also exempted from charges as set out in the NHS (Charges to Overseas Visitors) Regulations 2011 and will receive free treatment. The Department does not hold data on the nationality of those whose treatment is provided for by the NHS budget.
	Other overseas nationals, together with UK nationals who are not ordinarily resident in the UK are charged by hospitals for the costs of their treatment. Income received by NHS trusts from chargeable NHS patients for 2009-10 was £17,036,000. The Department does not collect information from NHS foundation trusts so the total figure will be higher.

Health Services: North Yorkshire

Hugh Bayley: To ask the Secretary of State for Health 
	(1)  what his policy is on the recommendations of Professor Hugo Mascie-Taylor's Independent Review of Health Services in North Yorkshire and York;
	(2)  if he will visit York to meet NHS patients and members of the public to discuss the recommendations of Professor Hugo Mascie-Taylor's Independent Review of Health Services in North Yorkshire and York.

Simon Burns: NHS Yorkshire and the Humber commissioned the independent review of health services in North Yorkshire and York on behalf of the local health economy. As such, the recommendations of this review are a matter for the local NHS. The Secretary of State for Health has no plans to undertake a visit to York to discuss the review. The hon. Member may wish to approach the chief executive of NHS Yorkshire and the Humber for further information.

Health Services: North Yorkshire

Hugh Bayley: To ask the Secretary of State for Health which public body will be responsible for co-ordinating action to implement the findings of the Independent Review of Health Services in North Yorkshire and York, commissioned by the Strategic Health Authority (SHA) for Yorkshire and the Humber, after the SHA is abolished.

Simon Burns: An amalgam of public bodies, all with an active interest in the way local health services are commissioned, will be responsible for co-ordinating action to implement the findings of this review.
	In future clinical commissioning groups will be responsible for commissioning the majority of health services. They will work in partnership with the local community and other organisations such as local authorities, which include health and well-being boards, in deciding the most appropriate health provision in their area.

Health: Information

Sharon Hodgson: To ask the Secretary of State for Health 
	(1)  what steps he is taking to ensure the accuracy of healthcare information on websites that are independent of the NHS;
	(2)  what guidelines his Department has issued on the distribution of information for patients;
	(3)  what guidelines his Department has issued on the (a) content, (b) style and (c) formatting of patient information leaflets.

Simon Burns: Ensuring that people can access reliable information to help them take decisions about their health and care is a vital component of shared decision-making and is a right for patients under the NHS Constitution. The Department has supported the establishment of The Information Standard scheme, a voluntary certification scheme for producers of health and social care information, which awards a quality mark to organisations that can show they have robust processes for developing high quality information. There are now over 100 members in this scheme, many of which are from the voluntary and commercial sectors.
	Before awarding the quality mark, the scheme assesses how an information producer puts in place systems to ensure its information is reliable, in terms of being evidence based, accurate and up-to-date. It also looks at, among other things, how an information producer works to ensure the content, design and accessibility of their materials meet the needs of their information users.
	There are also specific statutory and regulatory requirements for information to accompany licensed medicines and medical devices. To help those involved in the supply chain, the Department of Health and the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency has published guidance covering issues such as content, style and formatting.

Health: Yorkshire and the Humber

Andrew Jones: To ask the Secretary of State for Health how many people aged under 18 were diagnosed with (a) autism, (b) diabetes and (c) asthma in (i) Yorkshire and the Humber and (ii) the Harrogate and District area in each year since 2008.

Paul Burstow: Information is not available in the format requested. Information on how many people aged under 18 were diagnosed for any of the requested areas is not collected centrally. Autism information is not collected centrally. Harrogate and District area is not a recognised health area. However, the Quality and Outcomes Framework (QOF) holds patient register information for diabetes (aged 17 and over) and asthma (all ages). Information has therefore been provided for North Yorkshire and York Primary Care Trust (PCT), which includes the Harrogate and District area, and Yorkshire and the Humber Strategic Health Authority (SHA), in the following table. The 2010-11 QOF data are due to be published in October 2011.
	
		
			 QOF patient register information for diabetes (aged 17 and over) and asthma (all ages) 
			  QOF patient register 
			  2008-09 2009-10 
			 Diabetes   
			 Yorkshire and the Humber SHA 225,280 236,711 
			 North-Yorkshire and York PCT 28,913 30,350 
			    
			 Asthma   
			 Yorkshire and the Humber SHA 330,096 336,446 
		
	
	
		
			 North Yorkshire and York PCT 48,250 48,799 
			 Notes: 1. QOF is the national Quality and Outcomes Framework, introduced as part of the new General Medical Services (GMS) contract on 1 April 2004. Participation by practices in the QOF is voluntary, though participation rates are very high, with most Personal Medical Services (PMS) practices also taking part. 2. The published QOF information was derived from the Quality Management Analysis System (QMAS), a national system developed by NHS Connecting for Health. QMAS uses data from general practices to calculate individual practices' QOF achievement. QMAS is a national IT system developed by NHS Connecting for Health to support the QOF. 3. QMAS captures the number of patients on the various disease registers for each practice. The number of patients on the clinical registers can be used to calculate measures of disease prevalence, expressing the number of patients on each register as a percentage of the number of patients on practices' lists. 4. Coverage of QOF: Patients will only contribute to the figures in QOF if they are registered with a general practice participating in QOF. Not all practices participate in QOF and some participate in only some parts (especially PMS practices who are paid under different arrangements for providing services which are part of QOF for GMS practices). Most indicators in QOF have rules that allow for patients to be excluded (e.g. patient refuses treatment) and so the denominator for a given indicator may be less than the number of patients on the register for that disease. Note also that some indicators have age limits and so exclude some patients on the register. Source: QOF, The NHS Information Centre for health and social care

HIV Infection: Tower Hamlets

Rushanara Ali: To ask the Secretary of State for Health 
	(1)  what assessment he has made of the need for services providing specialised care to people with HIV suffering from HIV-related neurocognitive impairment; and if he will make a statement on the potential closure of Mildmay Hospital in Bethnal Green and Bow constituency;
	(2)  if he will take steps to protect services for people with HIV and AIDS in Bethnal Green and Bow constituency.

Anne Milton: Effective treatment has transformed the outlook for people diagnosed with HIV. However, HIV is a complex illness and there will be a small minority of people who require more specialised or hospital in-patient treatment. It is for primary care trusts to decide how they meet these needs either by referral to specialist national health service providers or voluntary sector providers such as Mildmay Hospital in the hon. Member's constituency.
	Discussions between the local NHS and commissioners are taking place with respect to Mildmay Hospital.

IVF: Finance

Vernon Coaker: To ask the Secretary of State for Health if he will review the funding of IVF by primary care trusts for the purposes of ensuring equitable treatment across the country.

Anne Milton: Primary care trusts (PCTs) are aware of their statutory commissioning responsibilities and the need to base commissioning decisions on clinical evidence and discussions with local general practitioner commissioners, secondary care clinicians and providers. The national health service deputy chief executive, David Flory, wrote to PCT commissioners on 11 January 2011 to highlight to those involved in commissioning fertility services the importance of having regard to the National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence fertility guidelines, including the recommendation that up to three cycles of IVF are offered to eligible couples where the woman is aged between 23 and 39.
	Additionally, we support Infertility Network UK—a leading patient support organisation—to develop and promote standardised access criteria and to work in partnership with commissioners to encourage good practice in the provision of fertility services.

Learning Disability: Medical Equipment

Graeme Morrice: To ask the Secretary of State for Health 
	(1)  what agencies of his Department are responsible for the provision and repair of communication aids and assistive technology for people with profound and multiple learning disabilities; and if he will make a statement;
	(2)  what discussions he has had with the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government about the funding of communication aids and assistive technology specifically for people with profound and multiple learning disabilities; and if he will make a statement;
	(3)  what representations he has received regarding the provision and repair of communication aids and assistive technology for people with profound and multiple learning disabilities; and if he will make a statement;
	(4)  what steps he is taking to monitor and assess the provision and repair of communication aids and assistive technology by (a) local authorities and (b) the NHS for people with profound and multiple learning disabilities; and if he will make a statement;
	(5)  whether he has any plans to provide information regarding communication aids and assistive technology for people with profound and multiple learning disabilities; and if he will make a statement;
	(6)  whether he has any plans to commission research into the practice and use of communication aids and assistive technology for people with profound and multiple learning disabilities; and if he will make a statement;
	(7)  what assessment he has made of the implications of the Whole System Demonstrator programme for people with profound and multiple learning disabilities; and if he will make a statement.

Paul Burstow: It is the responsibility of local social care services to determine and make arrangements for the provision and repair of communication aids and assistive technology.
	The “Vision on Adult Social Care, Capable Communities and Active Citizens” is clear that councils should commission a full range of appropriate preventative and early intervention services such as re-ablement and telecare, working in partnership with the national health service, housing authorities and others.
	Generally, councils may supply equipment costing up to £1,000 free of charge but in some circumstances may make direct payments to purchase equipment or adaptations themselves.
	No discussions have taken place between the Secretary of State for Health, the right hon. Member for South Cambridgeshire (Mr Lansley), and the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government, the right hon. Member for Brentwood and Ongar (Mr Pickles), about the funding of communication aids and assistive technology for people with profound and multiple learning disabilities. Local authorities are responsible for assessing the adult social care needs of local people and making arrangements to ensure that eligible needs are met. They are also responsible for determining spending on adult social care to meet local needs and priorities.
	Professor Mansell's report “Raising Our Sights” included views from the Profound and Multiple Learning Disabilities Network, Mencap, families, care staff, service managers and other respondents. The report recommended that the Government consider whether funding the provision and repair of communication aids for adults with profound intellectual and multiple disabilities should be the responsibility of the NHS or of local authority social care services.
	The question of monitoring and assessment are for local determination. The White Paper “Equity and Excellence: Liberating the NHS” proposes closer worker relationship between the NHS and local authorities. NHS and local authority partners should work closely together to improve integration.
	There are no plans at present to provide information about communication aids and assistive technology.
	The National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) welcomes funding applications for research into any aspect of human health. These applications are subject to peer review and are judged in open competition, with awards being made based on the scientific quality of the proposals made. In all disease areas, the amount of NIHR funding depends on the volume and quality of scientific activity. The Health Technology Assessment Programme is "needs led" and so suggestions for research can be submitted to the programme through a number of routes including an electronic web form at:
	http://www.hta.ac.uk/webforms/webforms/hta/0.asp
	The Health Technology Assessment (HTA) programme has held several teleconferences with a range of experts in the area of learning disabilities to focus on and identify research priorities including those in the areas of communication aids and assistive technology. Any priorities identified will be fed in to the appropriate NIHR work streams.
	The HTA programme has advertised for research, in to "supported self-management of diabetes in people with learning disabilities". A full proposal will be considered in September 2011.
	The Whole System Demonstrator Programme was established to determine the cost and clinical effectiveness of telehealth and telecare. The findings are currently being evaluated and will be independently peer reviewed before publication later this year. The benefits of remote monitoring are that it can lead to more independence, people having fewer admissions to home and support clinical monitoring of larger populations.

Leukaemia: Drugs

Valerie Vaz: To ask the Secretary of State for Health what his policy is on the availability of drugs for the treatment of leukaemia.

Simon Burns: There are a number of treatments available on the national health service for the treatment of leukaemia.
	Our priority is to give NHS patients better access to effective and innovative medicines by reforming the way companies are paid for NHS medicines, moving to a value-based pricing system when the current Pharmaceutical Price Regulation Scheme expires at the end of 2013.
	In the meantime, we have made £50 million additional funding available for cancer drugs in 2010-11 which has helped over 2,400 patients. Since April 2011, the Cancer Drugs Fund is helping thousands more patients access the drugs their clinicians believe will help them.

Mass Media

Daniel Poulter: To ask the Secretary of State for Health if he will place in the Library copies of his Department's national media coverage evaluations in each month for which one was produced since May 1997.

Simon Burns: Reports of routine monthly media coverage evaluations, from December 2004 to November 2006, can be found on the Department's website at:
	www.dh.gov.uk/en/FreedomOfInformation/Freedomofinformationpublicationschemefeedback/Classesofinformation/Communicationsresearch/DH_4130120
	Since November 2006, the Department no longer carries out routine monthly national media coverage evaluations.
	The Department does not hold central records of any national media coverage evaluations compiled between May 1997 and November 2004, and to locate the information would incur disproportionate costs.

Medical Treatments

Andrew Rosindell: To ask the Secretary of State for Health what guidance his Department has issued to enable the National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence to be flexible in its approach to appraisals of treatment where the treatment presents unusual challenges to standard methodological process.

Simon Burns: We have not given guidance to the National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE) on this matter and have no plans to do so. NICE is an independent body and is responsible for developing its own appraisal processes and methods, in consultation with stakeholders.

Medical Treatments

Andrew Rosindell: To ask the Secretary of State for Health what guidance the National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence issues on weighting of votes of representative members of its appraisal committees.

Simon Burns: This is a matter for the National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE) as an independent body. I have asked the chief executive of NICE to write to the hon. Member with this information. A copy of the letter will be placed in the Library.

Medical Treatments

Andrew Rosindell: To ask the Secretary of State for Health for what reasons the National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence may not announce a decision on a treatment recommended for use by an appraisal committee.

Simon Burns: This is a matter for the National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE) as an independent body. NICE'S ‘Guide to the single technology appraisal process’ describes the arrangements for publication of draft or final guidance following an Appraisal Committee meeting and is available at:
	www.nice.org.uk/media/42D/B3/STAGuideLrFinal.pdf

Medical Treatments

Tessa Munt: To ask the Secretary of State for Health what the name is of each technology to be evaluated by the National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence's Medical Technologies Advisory Committee during 2011-12.

Simon Burns: Information on medical technologies for which guidance is currently being developed by the National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE) Medical Technologies Advisory Committee is available at:
	http://guidance.nice.org.uk/Type/MT/InDevelopment

Medical Treatments

Sharon Hodgson: To ask the Secretary of State for Health what steps he is taking to promote public understanding of patient rights in respect of access to treatments on the NHS that have been approved by the National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence.

Simon Burns: The right to drugs and treatments recommended by the National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence is set out in the National Health Service Constitution.
	All NHS bodies and providers are already required by law to have regard to the NHS constitution and the Government are taking further steps through the current Health and Social Care Bill; Subject to parliamentary approval, the Bill creates an explicit duty for the new NHS Commissioning Board and local clinical commissioning groups to promote the NHS Constitution, including by promoting awareness of the constitution among patients, staff and members of the public.

Meningitis: Vaccination

Tony Cunningham: To ask the Secretary of State for Health 
	(1)  whether he expects to introduce a meningococcal B vaccine as soon as one is licensed;
	(2)  if he will provide an update on the work of the meningococcal subgroup of the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation following the call for evidence on vaccines against meningococcal group B disease;
	(3)  when he plans to begin preparation for the introduction of a meningococcal B vaccine into the childhood immunisation schedule.

Anne Milton: The Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI), the independent expert Committee that provides advice to the Department of Health on the use of vaccines in the national immunisation programme has started to consider the evidence on the use of meningococcal B vaccines.
	Following a call for evidence, ending in December 2010, the JCVI considered the submissions and a range of other evidence on meningococcal B vaccines. At its first meeting in February 2011, the meningococcal sub-committee of JCVI discussed the available evidence, provided initial advice and asked for further evidence and research before final advice can be formed. The JCVI considered the sub-committee's views in June 2011. The minutes of these meetings have been published as follows:
	Minute of JCVI meningococcal sub-committee 18 February 2011
	www.dh.gov.uk/prod_consum_dh/groups/dh_digitalassets/@dh/@ab/documents/digitalasset/dh_128724.pdf
	Draft minute of JCVI 8 June 2011
	www.dh.gov.uk/prod_consum_dh/groups/dh_digitalassets/@dh/@ab/documents/digitalasset/dh_128453.pdf
	A copy of the minutes from these meetings has also been placed in the Library.
	The Department will consider JCVI's recommendation on meningococcal B vaccination when it is received.

Meningitis: Vaccination

Tony Cunningham: To ask the Secretary of State for Health what his Department's policy is on the provision of efficient and up-to-date disease surveillance and microbiology in the monitoring of existing and new vaccines for (a) meningococcal and (b) pneumococcal disease; and how such services will be incorporated into Public Health England.

Anne Milton: Surveillance of meningococcal infection is a core responsibility of the Health Protection Agency (HPA). Currently, registered medical practitioners are required to immediately report cases of meningococcal meningitis or septicaemia to the HPA. Enhanced surveillance of meningococcal disease is undertaken in the HPA and involves following up all cases of vaccine preventable infections to ascertain vaccination status and additional clinical details. These data are used, in conjunction with information on coverage of vaccination, to establish the effectiveness of the current routine vaccination programme.
	The HPA also carries out pneumococcal disease surveillance. National pneumococcal surveillance is used to monitor the impact and effectiveness of pneumococcal conjugate vaccines currently given in the childhood immunisation schedule.
	“Healthy Lives, Healthy People: update and way forward” indicated that the Department will publish the operating model for Public Health England in autumn 2011. The operating model will set out Public Health England’s functions and organisational design, including in disease surveillance. Engagement is proceeding over the summer months to involve stakeholders in helping to shape the operating model.

Mental Health Services

Rushanara Ali: To ask the Secretary of State for Health what steps he is taking to ensure equality across the regions in the provision of mental health services.

Paul Burstow: The Mental Health strategy ‘No health without mental health’ recognises that better mental health, mental well-being and mental health services must be better for all—whatever people's age, race, religion or belief, sex, sexual orientation, disability, marital or civil partnership, pregnancy or maternity, or gender reassignment status.
	The public sector duty in the Equality Act 2010 means that public bodies, including Government Departments, will need to be mindful of how the inclusion and equitable treatment of all protected groups is incorporated, as public agencies produce, monitor and report on how they have met their equality objectives.
	The Ministerial Working Group on Equality in Mental Health has been established to support the Mental Health Equality work-stream of the Mental Health Strategy programme. The group will report to the Mental Health Strategy Ministerial Advisory Group. This will help to ensure that equality issues directly inform strategy implementation and enable the Government to fulfil their duties under the Equality Act 2010 and the Human Rights Act.
	The National Health Service Equality Delivery System will help NHS organisations to comply with the Equality Act and deliver fair and personalised services.

NHS Foundation Trusts: Private Patients

Rushanara Ali: To ask the Secretary of State for Health what estimate he has made of the number of private patients who may be treated by foundation trusts in the first year following the lifting of the private patients income cap.

Simon Burns: The effect of removing the private patient income cap for national health service foundation trusts is considered in the Government's Command Paper, ‘Liberating the NHS: Legislative framework and next steps’, and the impact assessments so far published for the Health and Social Care Bill 2011.

NHS: Drugs

Jonathan Reynolds: To ask the Secretary of State for Health by what means the dispensing of medication for in-patients in NHS hospitals is regulated.

Simon Burns: In general, including in national health service hospitals, the supply of medicines is regulated through the Medicines Act 1968 and the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971, as well as registration of health care providers with the Care Quality Commission and professional regulation.
	In July 2011, the Department issued a reminder notice to NHS chief executives and pharmaceutical officers, through its publication “The Week”, of the importance of adhering to existing guidance on medicines management, published by the former Royal Pharmaceutical Society of Great Britain, “The Safe and Secure Handling of Medicine: A Team Approach”, in 2005. The Department expects all hospitals to ensure they have in place a robust policy, signed off by the Trust Board, for the safe and secure handling of medicines, and that managers and all staff who prescribe, dispense or administer medicines are familiar with the policy.

NHS: Reorganisation

Valerie Vaz: To ask the Secretary of State for Health who will be responsible for commissioning services for (a) acquired brain injury, (b) tuberous sclerosis, (c) trigeminal neuralgia, (d) transverse myelitis, (e) Tourette's syndrome, (f) Guillain-Barre syndrome, (g) narcolepsy, (h) myasthenia gravis, (i) multiple system atrophy, (j) spina bifida, (k) hydrocephalus, (l) dystonia, (m) myalgic encephalomyelitis, (n) Parkinson's disease, (o) motor neurone disease, (p) epilepsy and (q) multiple sclerosis following his proposed NHS reorganisation.

Paul Burstow: Although it is expected that Clinical Commissioning Groups will commission the majority of services, the Health and Social Care Bill sets out the Government's intentions that the NHS Commissioning Board will commission certain services directly. Services that will be commissioned by the NHS Commissioning Board will be referred to as prescribed services and will be those that are included within specialised services that are currently commissioned both nationally and regionally.
	A Clinical Advisory Group has been established to develop a list of services that the NHS Commissioning Board will commission from 1 April 2013, subject to the passage of the Health and Social Care Bill and, as part of this work, the Group has been considering the neurosciences. While the list will be based on the services set out in the third edition of the Specialised Services National Definitions Set (SSDNS), the Group is also considering additional services that were excluded from the third edition of SSNDS, and which featured in earlier editions of SSNDS.

NHS: Theft

Mark Pawsey: To ask the Secretary of State for Health what the financial loss attributable to theft of medical equipment and other supplies from each health authority was in the last five years for which figures are available.

Simon Burns: The information is not available and could be obtained only at disproportionate cost.

Obesity

Karen Lumley: To ask the Secretary of State for Health what plans his Department has to reduce levels of obesity; and what recent progress has been made.

Anne Milton: Later this year we will be publishing a document on obesity that will set out how obesity will be tackled in the new public health and national health service systems, and the role of key partners. This will also set out what progress has already been made to facilitate action to help people make healthier choices and improve their lifestyles.
	We want people to know that they can change their own and their families' lifestyle and in doing so they can make a difference to their health. What the Government can do is give the public clear, consistent messages on why they should change their lifestyle, how to do so, and put in place ways to make this easier. However, we cannot tackle obesity alone it is an issue for society as a whole. We all have a role to play.

Obesity : North Yorkshire

Andrew Jones: To ask the Secretary of State for Health what the cost to the NHS in York and North Yorkshire was of obesity-related illness in the latest period for which figures are available.

Anne Milton: Information on the actual cost to the national health service of overweight and obesity is not collected by the Department.
	The estimated cost of overweight and obesity to the NHS nationally was set out in the Foresight report “Tackling Obesities: Future Choices—Modelling Future Trends in Obesity and the Impact on Health” published in 2007. In 2010, the Department published “Supporting Commissioning of Adult Weight Management Services”. This included an estimate of a total annual cost of £258 million to the NHS in North Yorkshire and York for the principal diseases, including type 2 diabetes, coronary heart disease, stroke, breast and colorectal cancer, where elevated Body Mass Index is a risk factor.
	As not every patient who has one of these diseases is obese or overweight, the modelling overestimates the cost to the NHS in North Yorkshire and York directly attributable to overweight and obesity.

Obesity Management Association

Conor Burns: To ask the Secretary of State for Health 
	(1)  what recent discussions he has had with the Obesity Management Association;
	(2)  whether he has had discussions with representatives of the Obesity Management Association on conducting a clinical trial of the methods advocated by the Association.

Anne Milton: Ministers have not had any discussions with the Obesity Management Association.

Palliative Care

Annette Brooke: To ask the Secretary of State for Health how many bed days of palliative care were provided by the NHS in the last period for which figures are available; and what the cost at national tariff rates was for such care.

Paul Burstow: Information about bed days used for palliative care is not available centrally.
	There is currently no national tariff for palliative or end of life care. We made a commitment in the coalition programme to review payment systems to support end of life care, including exploring options for per-patient funding, and set up an independent Palliative Care Funding Review to take this work forward.
	The review published its final report on 1 July 2011. We welcome the report, which has made an excellent start in looking at this complex and challenging issue. The review has come up with a range of significant proposals. We need now to consider these recommendations in detail and expect to consult stakeholders on the way forward shortly before running pilots.

Patients: Nutrition

Frank Dobson: To ask the Secretary of State for Health who in the Care Quality Commission has responsibility for (a) malnutrition and (b) improvement of nutritional care across health and care settings.

Simon Burns: Providers of regulated activities have to comply with registration requirements including one on meeting nutritional needs and are therefore responsible for delivering nutritional care. Where a provider is not meeting this requirement the Care Quality Commission (CQC) can take action to bring about improvement needed to ensure compliance with legal requirements.
	The Chief Executive of the CQC is Cynthia Bower. As such, she has overall responsibility for the CQCs delivery of its functions. This includes ensuring that the CQC carries out its registration function, providing assurance that the CQC takes appropriate action where providers are not compliant, including where it is found that providers are not meeting nutritional needs.

Patients: Nutrition

Frank Dobson: To ask the Secretary of State for Health what steps his Department is taking to provide nutritional screening for vulnerable patients on admission to hospital and in care settings.

Paul Burstow: National health service organisations and local authorities are responsible for nutrition screening policies. There are a number of initiatives in place to help organisations develop their policies. These include the National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence guidance on malnutrition which recommends that all hospital in-patients be weighed, measured and have their Body Mass Index calculated on admission to hospital. Additionally, the “Essence of Care” benchmarking system includes a benchmark on “food and drink” which illustrates the good practice of screening and assessment of patients on initial contact with a health professional in health and social care settings. This is reinforced within the Council of Europe resolution on food and nutritional care in hospital recommending the screening of all patients on admission to hospital.

Patients: Nutrition

Frank Dobson: To ask the Secretary of State for Health how many commissioners have established Commissioning for Quality and Innovation schemes to tackle malnutrition in hospitals since May 2010.

Simon Burns: The information is not held centrally. Commissioners are encouraged to share their Commissioning for Quality and Innovation schemes at the website of the NHS Institute for Innovation and Improvement:
	www.institute.nhs.uk/world_class_commissioning/pct_portal/cquin.html

Pressure Sores

Paul Maynard: To ask the Secretary of State for Health who will be responsible for commissioning community-based tissue viability services after the abolition of primary care trusts.

Simon Burns: Clinical commissioning groups will in future commission the majority of national health service services. This includes the commissioning of community-based tissue viability services. The proposed NHS Commissioning Board would commission services it would not be appropriate for clinical commissioning groups to commission, such as primary care, and national and regional specialised services for patients with rare conditions.

Primary Care Trusts: Finance

Tessa Munt: To ask the Secretary of State for Health if he will publish the financial settlement for each primary care trust for the duration of the comprehensive spending review period.

Simon Burns: The majority of primary care trust (PCT) revenue funding is allocated to PCTs via their revenue allocations.
	Of over £102 billion in total revenue investment in the national health service announced for 2011-12, the majority of the PCT revenue budget, £89 billion, was allocated to PCTs in December 2010. This funding included an increase of £1.9 billion in PCT recurrent allocations (including £150 million for re-ablement), £69 million in non-recurrent allocations for primary dental services, pharmaceutical services and general ophthalmic services, and £648 million to support joint working between health and social care.
	Full details of the revenue allocations made to PCTs for 2011-12 can be found by visiting the NHS allocations page of the Department's website at:
	www.dh.gov.uk/allocations
	PCT recurrent revenue allocations for 2012-13 will be announced as soon as is practical this year.
	Subject to the passage of the Health and Social Care Bill, PCTs will be dissolved in April 2013.

Psychiatry

Richard Fuller: To ask the Secretary of State for Health what recent assessment he has made of the effectiveness of the National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence's methodology for assessing different types of psychotherapy.

Paul Burstow: We have made no such assessment. As an independent body, the National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence is responsible for developing and reviewing its own processes and methods for the development of guidance.

Psychiatry

Jo Swinson: To ask the Secretary of State for Health what discussions he has had with Ministers in the Scottish Government on the performance of the Improving Access to Psychological Therapies programme; and if he will make a statement.

Paul Burstow: No discussions have taken place between the Secretary of State for Health, the right hon. Member for South Cambridgeshire (Mr Lansley) and Ministers in the Scottish Government on the performance of the Improving Access to Psychological Therapies programme.

Psychiatry

Robert Buckland: To ask the Secretary of State for Health if he will take steps to ensure that the National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence consults professional organisations in the field of psychotherapy on the adequacy of its guidelines on psychotherapy.

Paul Burstow: We have no plans to do so. In developing its guidance to the national health service, the National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE) consults widely with relevant stakeholders, including professional organisations. NICE is an independent body and it would not be appropriate for Ministers to intervene in the detail of its work.

Radiotherapy

Tessa Munt: To ask the Secretary of State for Health 
	(1)  what consideration the NHS has given to the 2007 recommendations of the National Radiotherapy Advisory Group on maximum travel times for radiotherapy patients in determining the provision of radiotherapy treatment with CyberKnife for cancer patients resident in Wells constituency;
	(2)  how much his Department plans to give to each primary care trust from the sum it has allocated in additional funding for the improvement of radiotherapy treatment;
	(3)  what his policy is on the commissioning recommendations in respect of stereotactic body radiotherapy treatment made in the April 2011 report of the National Radiotherapy Implementation Group.

Paul Burstow: The National Radiotherapy Advisory Group report ‘Radiotherapy: developing a world class service for England’, published in 2007, recommended that, where possible, patients should not travel more than 45 minutes for radiotherapy treatment. It was for local trusts to take account of this recommendation. The report made no specific recommendations regarding the provision of stereotactic body radiotherapy, which is the type of the radiotherapy that Cyberknife delivers.
	‘Improving Outcomes: A Strategy for Cancer’ sets out our commitment to expand radiotherapy capacity by investing over £150 million nationally in additional funding over the next four years. This funding, as well as existing funding for radiotherapy, is included in overall primary care trust (PCT) baseline allocations which amount to around £85 billion nationally.
	These overall baseline allocations are currently set on the basis of a weighted capitation formula, used to determine PCTs target shares of overall national health service resources to enable them to commission similar levels of health services for populations in similar need. However, the Secretary of State for Health does not mandate how much individual PCTs are to spend on particular services within these overall allocations. PCTs have local discretion to decide how to use their overall allocation to commission services, including radiotherapy services, to meet the health care needs of their local populations, taking account of local and national priorities.
	The National Radiotherapy Implementation Group report ‘Stereotactic Body Radiotherapy Guidelines for Commissioners, Providers and Clinicians in England 2011’ has now been made available on the National Cancer Action Team website at:
	www.ncat.nhs.uk/our-work/ensuring-better-treatment/radiotherapy
	It is for local commissioners to take account of this guidance.

Smoking

Greg Knight: To ask the Secretary of State for Health whether he plans a national review of the smoking ban; and if he will make a statement.

Anne Milton: In “Healthy Lives, Healthy People: A Tobacco Control Plan for England” published in March 2011, the Government sets out their belief that the aims of smokefree legislation are continuing to be achieved effectively. Alongside this plan, an independent academic review of the evidence of the impact of smokefree legislation was published, titled “The Impact of Smokefree legislation in England”, showing that the legislation has had beneficial effects on health. Copies of both documents have already been placed in the Library.
	The Government also published their interim Post-Legislative Assessment of the Health Act 2006 on 12 July 2011, a copy of which is available in the Library.
	The Government have no plans to review smokefree legislation further at this stage.

Specialised Services Patient and Public Engagement Steering Group

Tessa Munt: To ask the Secretary of State for Health pursuant to the answer of 6 July 2011, Official Report, columns 1277-8W, on the Specialised Services Patient and Public Engagement Steering Group, which patient representative organisations have been selected to sit on the Specialised Services Patient and Public Engagement Steering Group.

Simon Burns: The Specialised Services Patient and Public Engagement Steering Group includes patient interest group representation from: the Specialised Healthcare Alliance (representing a range of patient interest groups covering most of the National Specialised Services Definition Set), the Genetic Alliance UK (a national charity of over 130 patient organisations supporting all those affected by genetic disorders), Rare Disease UK, the Advisory Group for National Specialised Services (AGNSS), Emergence, Bliss, Comprehensive Care for Sickle Cell Disease(1), Sickle Cell Society(1), Progressive Supranuclear Palsy Association, the Haemophilia Society, the British Heart Foundation and the Richmond Group (representing 10 of the largest patient/service users organisations in the United Kingdom).
	(1) Alternating attendance

Specialised Services Patient and Public Engagement Steering Group

Tessa Munt: To ask the Secretary of State for Health 
	(1)  what the name is of each representative of the Specialist Healthcare Alliance who sits on the Specialised Services Patient and Public Engagement Steering Group; and if he will identify which organisation each represents;
	(2)  pursuant to the answer of 12 July 2011, Official Report, columns 305-06W, on Specialised Services Patient and Public Engagement Steering Group, for what reasons the Specialised Healthcare Alliance was chosen to represent patients.

Simon Burns: A key aim of the Specialised Services Patient and Public Engagement Steering Group is to ensure that there is stakeholder involvement in the co-design and co-production of the future model for engaging patients and the public in the commissioning of specialised services through the NHS Commissioning Board.
	The Director of the Specialised Healthcare Alliance sits on the Specialised Services Patient and Public Engagement Steering Group. The Specialised Healthcare Alliance was selected as one of the two main umbrella organisations with an interest in specialised health care. It represents a range of patient interest groups covering most of the National Specialised Services Definition Set.

Specialised Services Patient and Public Engagement Steering Group

Tessa Munt: To ask the Secretary of State for Health pursuant to the answer of 12 July 2011, Official Report, columns 305-06W, on Specialised Services Patient and Public Engagement Steering Group, which groups his Department considered when selecting organisations to represent patients on the group.

Simon Burns: When establishing the Specialised Services Patient and Public Engagement Steering Group, the Department was mindful of the need to ensure broad representation from a range of different stakeholder interests without making the steering group so unwieldy that it would have problems discharging its functions. As such, in consultation with Specialised Services Commissioners, the Specialised Healthcare Alliance and the Department, a number of patient organisations were identified that would have different perspectives. The group has representatives from the two main umbrella organisations with an interest in specialised health care, the Specialised Healthcare Alliance and the Genetic Alliance UK.
	In consultation with the Specialised Healthcare Alliance, it was agreed that additional members would represent a patient's organisation with a mental health focus; an organisation with a focus on children's health; and organisations with backgrounds in acute and chronic illnesses. It was also agreed to have a mix of small and large organisations, to gain a broad perspective. In addition, there is membership from a representative of the Richmond Group, representing 10 of the largest patient/service users organisations in the United Kingdom.
	By selecting these organisations, we aim to ensure that the future model is aware of the different ways in which engagement would need to function for different types of health condition. The group is a “broad-church” to provide advice on the design of a future structure and as such does not aim to represent the unique and particular interests of every health condition. Its aim is to design a framework that can be used sensitively to ensure appropriate patient engagement across the range of specialised health services.

Specialised Services Patient and Public Engagement Steering Group

Tessa Munt: To ask the Secretary of State for Health pursuant to the answer of 12 July 2011, Official Report, columns 305-6W, on Specialised Services Patient and Public Engagement Steering Group, what the  (a) nature and (b) membership is of the Richmond Group; if he will list the 10 major charities to which his answer refers; and what information his Department holds on the relationship between the Richmond Group and the financial services company of the same name.

Simon Burns: The Richmond Group comprises 10 large charities across a range of health and social care issues. Brought together by the Department as part of the Quality, Innovation, Productivity and Prevention programme, they have formed an identity of their own. The group membership is Age UK, Asthma UK, Breakthrough Breast Cancer, British Heart Foundation, British Lung Foundation, Diabetes UK, Macmillan Cancer Support, The Neurological Alliance, Rethink and The Stroke Association.
	The Group is known as the Richmond Group because they first met in Richmond House and are not associated with the financial services company with this name.

Suicide: Internet

Rushanara Ali: To ask the Secretary of State for Health what information his Department holds on the number of suicides that had a connection to websites promoting suicide in the latest period for which figures are available.

Paul Burstow: We do not collect this information centrally. There is no routine recording of internet-related suicide and it would be difficult to define and identify such cases nationally. It is expected that the “National Confidential Inquiry into Suicide and Homicide by People with Mental Illness” will, in the future, include data on suicides among patients where websites that promote suicide have been involved.

Surgery

Andrew Jones: To ask the Secretary of State for Health how many surgical errors leading to avoidable harm were recorded in the NHS in (a) 2009-10 and (b) 2010-11.

Simon Burns: Data held by the National Patient Safety Agency shows that from April 2009 to March 2010, there were 47,645 surgical incidents resulting in harm reported to the National Reporting and Learning System (NRLS).
	From April 2010 to March 2011 there were 50,183 surgical incidents resulting in harm reported to the NRLS.

Surgery: Safety

Andrew Jones: To ask the Secretary of State for Health which primary care trusts have not implemented the surgical safety checklist recommended by the World Health Organisation.

Simon Burns: On 26 January 2009, the National Patient Safety Agency issued a patient safety alert to the national health service in relation to the World Health Organization (WHO) Surgical Safety Checklist. This required the following actions:
	ensure an executive and a clinical lead are identified in order to implement the surgical safety checklist within the organisation;
	ensure the checklist is completed for every patient undergoing a surgical procedure (including local anaesthesia); and
	ensure that the use of the checklist is entered in the clinical notes or electronic record by a registered member of the team, for example, surgeon, anaesthetist, nurse, operating department practitioner.
	Data held on the Central Alerting System (CAS), through which the patient safety alert was issued, shows that all NHS trusts listed on the CAS have received and made responses in relation to the patient safety alert that required implementation of the WHO Surgical Safety Checklist.
	Analysis of this data shows that 301 trusts (77 per cent.) state they have completed implementing the alert and 91 trusts (23 per cent.) have stated that no action is required by them. Of the 147 of these trusts that are primary care trusts, 112 state they have completed implementing the alert and 35 state that no action is required by them in relation to the alert.
	A response of 'Action not required' indicates that a trust considers that the actions required in a patient safety alert are not relevant to their organisation, whereas a response of 'Completed' signifies that a trust considers that it has carried out all the actions required in the alert that are applicable to them.

Tobacco

Jason McCartney: To ask the Secretary of State for Health 
	(1)  what discussions he has had with the National Association of Cigarette Machine Operators on the change in the law affecting the operation of cigarette vending machines from 1 October 2011;
	(2)  whether compensation will be made available to the operators of cigarette vending machines affected by a change in the law from 1 October 2011;
	(3)  what steps he plans to take to inform operators of cigarette vending machines of the change in the law relating to their businesses from 1 October 2011.

Anne Milton: The prohibition of tobacco sales from vending machines will come into force, in England, on 1 October 2011. The Government are not intending to pay compensation to vending machine companies.
	Sinclair Collis and the members of the National Association of Cigarette Machine Operators (NACMO) who, between them, own the majority of vending machines in England, are both aware of the requirements of legislation and the commencement date.
	The Department will undertake activity to raise awareness of the legislation before October, and have supported the preparation of guidance for local authorities. NACMO have been invited to comment on the draft version of this guidance.

Tobacco

Tom Blenkinsop: To ask the Secretary of State for Health what assessment he has made of the health impact of the sale of counterfeit cigarettes from tab houses.

Anne Milton: The Department is not aware of any evidence, which estimates the health impact of the sale of counterfeit cigarettes in tab houses.
	All cigarettes are harmful to health, whether genuine or counterfeit. There is no evidence to suggest that counterfeit cigarettes or other counterfeit tobacco products are more harmful to health than genuine products, regardless of where that counterfeit tobacco is sold.
	‘Healthy Lives, Healthy People: A Tobacco Control Plan for England’, published earlier this year sets out a range of Government actions on both the supply-side and demand-side to reduce smoking prevalence and the harms from tobacco in England. The availability of illicit tobacco undermines activity to try to reduce the affordability of tobacco, including through tax increases. Reducing the share of the illicit tobacco market also helps to reduce tobacco consumption, reduce organised crime in local communities, reduce potential revenue loss to the Treasury and support legitimate retailers. Latest estimates indicate action led by HM Revenue and Customs over the past decade has reduced the illicit share of the cigarette market down to 11% in 2009 (from 20% in 2000) and the illicit share of the hand-rolling tobacco market down to 49% in 2009 (from 60% in 2000).

Warwickshire Primary Care Trust

Chris White: To ask the Secretary of State for Health how much funding was received by Warwickshire Primary Care Trust in each year since 2007.

Simon Burns: Allocations for 2007-08 were announced in 2005 for North Warwickshire Primary Care Trust (PCT), Rugby PCT and South Warwickshire PCT. These PCTs merged to form Warwickshire PCT in 2006. The information requested is in the following tables:
	
		
			 PCT 2007-08 PCT recurrent revenue allocations (£000) 
			 North Warwickshire 234,807 
			 Rugby 113,435 
			 South Warwickshire 303,964 
			 Total 652,206 
		
	
	
		
			  Warwickshire PCT recurrent revenue allocations (£000) 
			 2008-09 687,830 
			 2009-10 739,819 
			 2010-11 781,747 
			 2011-12 787,474 
			 Note: Allocations are not always comparable between years because of changes in baselines—that is changes in PCTs' responsibilities to be funded from allocations. Source: Financial Planning and Allocations Division, Department of Health

Warwickshire Primary Care Trust

Chris White: To ask the Secretary of State for Health 
	(1)  what the estimated cost was of management for Warwickshire Primary Care Trust in each year since 2007;
	(2)  what the costs of administration of the Warwickshire Primary Care Trust were in each year since 2007.

Simon Burns: Information on management and administration costs for Warwickshire Primary Care Trust is shown in the following table:
	
		
			  Managers and senior managers Administrative and clerical staff 
			 2006-07 7,833 14,092 
			 2007-08 4,803 10,814 
			 2008-09 3,214 12,171 
			 2009-10 1,530 15,693 
			 Note: The figures represent expenditure on managers and senior managers and administrative and clerical staff for each year since 2006-07. Source: Financial Returns

Warwickshire Primary Care Trust

Chris White: To ask the Secretary of State for Health how many hospital bed days there were for (a) chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and (b) all respiratory diseases in Warwickshire Primary Care Trust area in each year since 2007.

Simon Burns: I refer the hon. Member to the written answer I gave my hon. Friend the Member for Hove (Mike Weatherley) on 22 November 2010, Official Report, column 426W.

EDUCATION

Academies

Austin Mitchell: To ask the Secretary of State for Education how many schools in each local authority (a) had applied and (b) were applying for academy status on the latest date for which figures are available; and how many in each local authority area are planning to use the payroll and human resources services of the local authority.

Nick Gibb: The latest number of schools in each local authority who have applied for academy status is published on the Department's website monthly. The list can be accessed at the following web address:
	http://www.education.gov.uk/schools/leadership/typesofschools/academies/b0069811/open-academies-and-academy-projects-in-development
	We do not collect data on which academies plan to use the payroll and human resources services of the local authority.

Academies: First Aid

Andrew Jones: To ask the Secretary of State for Education what provisions academies are required to make to train staff to deliver emergency first aid to those diagnosed with (a) epilepsy and (b) allergies.

Nick Gibb: The Health and Safety at Work etc. Act (HSWA) 1974 places duties on employers for the health and safety of their employees and anyone else on the premises including, if they are a school, its pupils. As employers, academies must: prepare a written Health and Safety policy; make sure that staff are aware of the policy and their responsibilities within that policy; make arrangements to implement the policy; and make sure that appropriate safety measures are in place to ensure staff are trained and receive guidance on their responsibilities.
	The responsibility of the academy is to make sure that safety measures cover the needs of all children at the school. In some cases children with medical needs may be more at risk than other children and staff may need to take additional steps to safeguard the health and safety of such children. Where children have medical needs, they may require specific support. The academy is responsible for making sure that all relevant staff know about and are, if necessary, trained to provide any additional support these children require.

Building Schools for the Future Programme

Lisa Nandy: To ask the Secretary of State for Education what recent estimate has been made of the total cost to the public purse to date of the cancellation of Building Schools for the Future funding, including costs to local authorities of legal fees and contractual liabilities for cancellation of work already underway.

Nick Gibb: No estimate has been made of the total cost of the cancellation of the Building Schools for the Future (BSF) programme.
	The design of BSF meant that significant sums had to be spent by local authorities before contracts were finalised and we have terminated the programme to prevent such waste. We are taking steps to ensure that future education capital expenditure delivers greater value for money.

Education: Assessments

John Mann: To ask the Secretary of State for Education whether his Department has considered granting additional powers to Ofqual in order that it may better regulate awarding bodies; and if so, with what outcomes.

Nick Gibb: Ofqual have acted quickly and decisively to address the serious and unacceptable errors in this summer's exam papers. However, in the light of the concerns raised by these errors, the Government are currently considering whether any additional powers of enforcement would further equip Ofqual to: tackle poor practice to prevent the kind of errors that happened this year; incentivise improvements in the standard of awarding body performance; and provide proportionate and effective sanctions for non-compliance with regulatory requirements whenever it occurs. Further information on the outcome will be available in the autumn.

Food Technology

Anna Soubry: To ask the Secretary of State for Education what assessment he has made of the merits of maintaining the teaching of practical cooking skills as a compulsory part of the school curriculum at Key Stage 3.

Nick Gibb: This Government believe that teaching practical cooking to children makes a significant contribution to healthier living. It is not currently a compulsory part of the KS3 curriculum in schools, but the national curriculum review which is underway will advise the government about the merits of making it so. Our proposals for the content of the new national curriculum at each key stage will be published early in 2012.

Free School Meals

Ian Mearns: To ask the Secretary of State for Education how many and what proportion of (a) primary and (b) secondary schools with over 40 per cent. of pupils eligible for free school meals are (i) below and (ii) above the floor level.

Nick Gibb: The information requested is as follows.
	(a) There are 1,810 maintained primary schools with over 40% of pupils eligible for free school meals, of which; (i) 397 (22%) are below the floor standard and (ii) 1,413 (78%) are not below the floor standard.
	(b) There are 417 maintained secondary schools with over 40% of pupils eligible for free school meals, of which; (i) 40 (10%) are below the floor standard and (ii) 377 (90%) are not below the floor standard.
	These figures are based on data for 2010 (using data from 2009 for primary schools that did not participate in the 2010 national curriculum tests). Figures for 2011 are not yet available.

Free School Meals

Ian Mearns: To ask the Secretary of State for Education how many and what proportion of (a) primary and (b) secondary schools with over 40 per cent. of children eligible for free school meals and in the most deprived third of schools in the sector, as measured by the Income Deprivation Affecting Children Index, are (i) below and (ii) above the floor level.

Nick Gibb: The information is as follows:
	(a) There are 1,768 maintained primary schools with over 40% of children eligible for free school meals and in the most deprived third of schools in the sector as measured by the Income Deprivation Affecting Children Index, of which; (i) 393 (22%) are below the floor standard and (ii) 1,375 (78%) are not below the floor standard.
	(b) There are 390 maintained secondary schools with over 40% of children eligible for free school meals and in the most deprived third of schools in the sector as measured by the Income Deprivation Affecting Children Index, of which; (i) 39 (10%) are below the floor standard and (ii) 351 (90%) are not below the floor standard.
	These figures are based on data for 2010 (using data from 2009 for primary schools that did not participate in the 2010 national curriculum tests). Figures for 2011 are not yet available.

Free School Meals: Tower Hamlets

Rushanara Ali: To ask the Secretary of State for Education how many and what proportion of pupils of each ethnicity at each (a) primary and (b) secondary school in Bethnal Green and Bow constituency were eligible for free school meals on the latest date for which figures are available.

Nick Gibb: The information requested has been placed in the House Libraries.
	The latest published information, for January 2011, on ethnicity and free school meal eligibility and other school and pupil information can be found at:
	http://www.education.gov.uk/rsgateway/DB/SFR/s001012/index.shtml

Health Education: Sex

Stewart Jackson: To ask the Secretary of State for Education pursuant to the answer of 6 July 2011, Official Report, column 1300W, on health education: sex, in schools which teach aspects of sex and relationships education in science lessons that are not covered by the national curriculum for science, whether there are requirements on the governing body to consult parents on the (a) delivery and (b) content of what is taught for the purposes of ensuring that it reflects the wishes of parents; what powers parents have to withdraw their children from such lessons; and if he will make a statement.

Nick Gibb: Parents have the right to withdraw their children from all or part of the sex and relationships education (SRE) provided at school except for those parts included in the statutory National Curriculum, including the statutory science curriculum. The Department's SRE guidance requires governing bodies to have a written policy and strongly encourages them to consult parents during its development. The policy must define SRE, describe how it is provided and who is responsible for providing it.

Outdoor Education

Simon Hart: To ask the Secretary of State for Education what steps he is taking to promote the Learning Outside the Classroom Quality Badge.

Nick Gibb: In the Government's response to the recommendations of the Children, Schools and Families Committee on Learning Outside the Classroom, published in October 2010, we made clear our support for education outside the classroom. The Government also set out their view that the Council for Learning Outside the Classroom and its member organisations should work directly with schools and education providers. We do not intend to provide additional resources, Government regulation, monitoring or guidance for the Council for Learning Outside the Classroom and the Quality Badge scheme.

Pupils: Disadvantaged

Nicholas Dakin: To ask the Secretary of State for Education how many 16 to 18 year olds in schools are (a) entitled to and (b) receive free school meals. [R]

Nick Gibb: The information available on the number of pupils eligible for and claiming free school meals by age as at January 2011, is published in table 3a of the Statistical First Release “Schools, Pupils and their Characteristics, January 2011” available at
	http://www.education.gov.uk/rsgateway/DB/SFR/s001012/index.shtml
	Information on pupils who may be entitled but do not make a claim is not centrally collected.

School Milk

Sharon Hodgson: To ask the Secretary of State for Education what plans he has to promote the drinking of milk in nursery and primary school settings as part of the implementation of the revised Early Years Foundation Stage Framework.

Sarah Teather: The Government believe that the early years are crucial to the future success and well-being of all children and have published a statement of their vision for the early years.
	Dame Clare Tickell's review of the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) reflected the findings from the Advisory Panel on Food and Nutrition in Early Years about offering voluntary nutritional guidance to help settings to provide healthy, balanced and nutritious food and drink for children in child care up to age five. The Government have asked the School Food Trust to develop voluntary guidance and a code of practice to support practitioners.

Schools: Standards

Ian Mearns: To ask the Secretary of State for Education how many (a) primary and (b) secondary schools are below the floor level.

Nick Gibb: There are currently (a) 1,394 maintained primary schools and (b) 216 maintained secondary schools below the floor standards. These figures are based on data for 2010 (using data from 2009 for primary schools that did not participate in the 2010 national curriculum tests). Figures for 2011 are not yet available.

Sixth Form Education: Sunderland

Julie Elliott: To ask the Secretary of State for Education pursuant to the answer of 17 June 2011, Official Report, column 992W, on sixth form colleges, how many young people entered formal post-16 education in sixth forms in (a) Sunderland Central constituency and (b) Sunderland in (i) 2000 and (ii) 2009.

Nick Gibb: Data on participation in education post-16 is published in a Department for Education (DFE) Statistical First Release (SFR) entitled "Participation in Education, Training and Employment by 16-18 Year Olds in England".
	Information on participation is not available at constituency level. The following table shows the numbers and proportions of the cohort of young people of academic age 16 (the vast majority of whom will be in their first year of post-compulsory education) in the Sunderland local authority area who were participating in education, by institution type, in 2000 and 2009.
	Young people in school sixth forms are shown here as participating in maintained schools, academies and city technology colleges, and independent schools.
	
		
			 Sunderland local authority: participation in education at academic age 16 by institution type, end 2000 and end 2009 
			  End 2000 End 2009 
			  Number Percentage Number Percentage 
			 Maintained schools(1) 500 14 700 20 
			 Academies and city technology colleges — 0 — 0 
			 Independent schools(2) — 1 100 2 
			 Sixth form colleges — 0 — 0 
			 General FE, tertiary and specialist colleges 1,600 42 2,000 55 
			 Total 2,100 57 2,800 77 
			 Population 4,000 3,600 
			 (1) Includes all pupils in maintained schools and maintained special schools and pupil referral units. (2) Includes all pupils in independent schools, non-maintained special schools.

Special Educational Needs

Dan Jarvis: To ask the Secretary of State for Education whether the new Special Educational Needs Code of Practice will give rights to children without education, health and care plans or statements who have special educational needs.

Sarah Teather: holding answer 18 July 2011
	Any revision of the special educational needs (SEN) Code of Practice following the SEN and disability Green Paper, ‘Support and aspiration’, will make clear that schools will continue to have a duty to “use their best endeavours” to make appropriate provision to meet the special educational needs of children with SEN but without education, health and care plans or SEN statements.
	The Green Paper sets out a proposal that local authorities must publish a “local offer” of the support that is normally available for children with SEN or who are disabled and their families, and from whom.
	The new inspection requirements set out in the Education Bill are quite explicit with regard to disability and SEN. Her Majesty's Chief Inspector (HMCI) will be required, when reporting on the quality of education in a school, to consider how the school meets the needs of pupils who have a disability and pupils who have special educational needs.
	We are also considering a package of measures to ensure that schools are properly accountable for outcomes for vulnerable pupils. We are exploring the options for publishing better information on pupil destinations on leaving school and on progress made by the lowest performers.

Special Educational Needs: Employment

Sharon Hodgson: To ask the Secretary of State for Education what assessment he has made of the effect of attending a special school on the ability of a young person to gain employment; and if he will make a statement.

Sarah Teather: Currently, the Department for Education does not collect information about the impact of special schools on the ability of a young person to gain employment. However, in the recent Green Paper, “Support and aspiration: a new approach to special educational needs and disability”, we announced our intention to introduce Key Stage 4 and Key Stage 5 destination measures. These school and college level measures will demonstrate how many of schools’ and colleges’ former pupils progress into further education, employment or training. It is our intention to include special school pupils within these measures at the earliest opportunity, following testing of the data collection processes.

Special Educational Needs: Pendle

Andrew Stephenson: To ask the Secretary of State for Education if he will bring forward proposals to increase the efficacy of special needs education provision in Pendle.

Sarah Teather: In March 2011 the Government published their SEN and Disability Green Paper, “Support and aspiration: A new approach to special educational needs and disability”. The Green Paper made wide ranging proposals to improve the efficiency of special educational needs provision across the country, including in Pendle. Consultation on the Green paper closed on 30 June with over 2,300 responses received.
	Proposals in the Green Paper include: a new single early years setting and school- based category of SEN; replacing the statutory SEN assessment and statement for children with complex needs and the Learning Difficulty Assessment for those aged 16-25 with a new, stronger single assessment and plan, called the Education, Health and Care plan; reducing the time limit for the statutory assessment process from 26 weeks to 20 weeks; a local offer, set out by local authorities and other services, of all services available to support children and young people who are disabled, or who have SEN and their families and the option of a personal budget by 2014 for all families with an Education, Health and Care plan.
	The Green Paper also promotes a reduction in the bureaucratic burdens on professionals so that they can concentrate on helping children and young people fulfil their potential. It commits the Government to simplifying and improving statutory guidance for professionals working with children with SEN and disabilities so that it is clear accessible and helpful and to withdrawing guidance that does not provide useful support. In particular, we will shorten the SEN Code of Practice and incorporate within it other guidance that is considered helpful to professionals.
	The process of commissioning pathfinders to test out some of our proposals began in June, to start from September 2011. Local pathfinders will show what is possible and whether central Government must act to facilitate local innovation, working with local areas and the voluntary and community sector to drive reforms.

Supply Teachers

Craig Whittaker: To ask the Secretary of State for Education what assessment he has made of the likely effect on the (a) quality and (b) rates of pay of supply teachers of the introduction of the Agency Workers Regulations.

Nick Gibb: Schools and agencies will continue to be responsible for appointing the most suitable supply teachers. The Department's Quality Mark scheme will continue to ensure the quality of supply teachers provided to schools by agencies. The Quality Mark recognises private sector agencies and local authorities which have demonstrated good practice in recruiting and managing supply teachers for schools. The award gives increased confidence to schools, parents and pupils that staff supplied through agencies have been recruited properly.
	The Agency Workers Regulations will entitle agency supply teachers to be paid the same rates they would receive if they had been recruited by either the school or the local authority. This will only apply after the teacher has completed a qualifying period of 12 weeks in the same role with either the same school or local authority. After the qualifying period, teachers in maintained schools will be paid at their appropriate point on the main or upper pay scale in the School Teachers' Pay and Conditions Document (STPCD). Teachers in academy schools which are outside the STPCD will be entitled to the same salaries as other teachers in the academy.

WOMEN AND EQUALITIES

Workplace Dress Codes

Naomi Long: To ask the Minister for Women and Equalities what recent assessment she has made of the compatibility with equalities legislation of (a) the requirement to wear a necktie and (b) other gender-specific workplace dress codes.

Theresa May: Today I am wearing a silver grey trouser suit and a pair of shoes from LK Bennett.
	As Secretary of State for the Home Department I have not found that traditional gender-based workplace dress codes have held me back. I indeed believe that they encourage a sense of professionalism in the workplace.

BUSINESS, INNOVATION AND SKILLS

Adult Education: Greater London

Rushanara Ali: To ask the Secretary of State for Business, Innovation and Skills what plans he has for future provision of adult education in (a) Bethnal Green and Bow constituency and (b) the London borough of Tower Hamlets.

John Hayes: Skills are vital to achieve sustainable growth, prosperity, social mobility and fairness. The Skills Funding Agency is responsible for funding arrangements, and has made an allocation of £14,151,665 for post-19 further education to colleges and training organisations in the London borough of Tower Hamlets for the 2011/12 academic year. This includes support for adult apprenticeships as the programme at the heart of the skills system we are building. The agency does not hold specific data relating to the constituency of Bethnal Green and Bow.
	As well as apprenticeships, this investment will fully fund basic literacy and numeracy qualifications for those who left school without basic reading, writing and mathematics, and foundation learning and first full level 2 and level 3 qualifications for young adults. We will also fully fund units and full qualifications to support unemployed people into work who are in receipt of active benefits. The Government will continue to invest in training outside those areas where full subsidy is available, with the costs shared between the Government and the learner or employer.
	From 2013/14, FE fee loans will be introduced for learning at Level 3 and above for those aged 24 and over.
	Our investment for 2011/12 will also support Informal Adult and Community Learning in Tower Hamlets. Informal learning is an important part of the wider learning continuum and comprises a broad range of provision. We are currently reviewing nationally how to maximise this form of learning's contribution to initiatives such as building the Big Society through learning for personal development, digital inclusion and motivating people from disadvantaged groups and supporting their progression.
	As part of our wider reforms, we have provided greater freedoms and flexibilities for FE colleges and training organisations, including simplifying funding so that colleges can manage their budgets more flexibly in line with priorities. This will place them in a better position to respond to the needs of learners, employers and communities to whom they will be increasingly accountable.

Apprentices: Chatham

Tracey Crouch: To ask the Secretary of State for Business, Innovation and Skills how many apprenticeships have been started in Chatham and Aylesford constituency since 2005.

John Hayes: Table 1 shows the number of apprenticeship programme starts in Chatham and Aylesford constituency for academic years 2005/06 to 2009/10,
	the latest year for which final data are available.
	
		
			 Table 1: Apprenticeship programme starts in Chatham and Aylesford parliamentary constituency, 2005/06 to 2009/10 
			  Number 
			 2005/06 200 
			 2006/07 280 
			 2007/08 340 
			 2008/09 340 
			 2009/10 420 
			 Notes: 1. Figures are rounded to the nearest ten. 2. Geographic information is based upon the home postcode of the learner. 3. These figures are based on the geographic boundaries of parliamentary constituencies as of May 2010. Source: Individualised Learner Record. 
		
	
	Information on the number of apprenticeship starts is published in a quarterly statistical first release (SFR). The latest SFR was published on 23 June 2011:
	http://www.thedataservice.org.uk/statistics/statisticalfirstrelease/sfr_current

Apprentices: North East

Julie Elliott: To ask the Secretary of State for Business, Innovation and Skills what steps he is taking to encourage small and medium-sized businesses to offer apprenticeships to young people in (a) the North East and (b) Sunderland.

John Hayes: The National Apprenticeship Service (NAS) was set up to increase the number of apprenticeship opportunities and provide a dedicated, responsive service for both employers and learners. Specifically for smaller employers (those with up to 250 employees), NAS provides support through a dedicated web and telephone based service.
	In the North East between 1 August 2010 to 31 July 2011, NAS has helped 500 businesses to create 950 apprenticeship opportunities—71% of these businesses had less than 250 employees. This includes 50 businesses in Sunderland which have been helped by NAS to create 87 apprenticeship opportunities—with 76% having less than 250 employees. It is not possible to provide a breakdown by age group.
	The Government do want to do more to encourage small and medium-sized enterprises (SME) to offer apprenticeships. We are currently examining what more can be done to facilitate greater SME engagement in skills and training and publish our recommendations in the autumn.

Copyright

Mike Weatherley: To ask the Secretary of State for Business, Innovation and Skills what plans he has to bring forward legislative proposals on private format shifting.

Edward Davey: The Government published their response to the Hargreaves review ‘Digital Opportunity, A Review of Intellectual Property and Growth’ on 3 August 2011. The response sets out the Government's broad acceptance of the review's recommendations, including the introduction of a limited exception to copyright for private copying, and outlines how the Government propose to take matters forward. We will consult on how we plan to implement this recommendation in the autumn.

Copyright

Mike Weatherley: To ask the Secretary of State for Business, Innovation and Skills what his policy is on the pricing model in the central rights database.

Edward Davey: On 3 August the Government published their response to the independent review of the Intellectual Property and Growth, in which it accepted the report's recommendations including the establishing of a cross-sectoral Digital Copyright Exchange (DCE).
	In the Government's response we set out some of the required parameters. One of which is that a successful DCE would need to allow prices to be set or negotiated by the rights holder, subject to controls on unfair competition (such as the tariffs currently set by the Copyright Tribunal).
	The Government are looking to appoint a senior figure to work with relevant parties to lead this work with a view to setting up a DCE by the end of 2012.

Departmental Labour Turnover

John Redwood: To ask the Secretary of State for Business, Innovation and Skills how many people have been (a) recruited and (b) made redundant from (i) his Department and (ii) each non-departmental body for which he is responsible since May 2010.

Edward Davey: In June 2009 the Department for Business Enterprise and Regulatory Reform (BERR) was merged with the Department for Innovation, Universities and Skills (DIUS) to create the Department for Business, Innovation and Skills (BIS).
	Since May 2010 BIS has recruited 14 people to fill posts requiring special skills not already available in the Department. We have also brought in 22 graduates as part of the annual Fast Stream recruitment round conducted on behalf of all Departments by the Cabinet Office.
	330 people left BIS under a voluntary exit scheme in September-October 2010. In February 2011 the Department launched a further voluntary redundancy scheme which is still ongoing, under which 220 people are currently scheduled to leave.
	This information for agencies and non-departmental public bodies is not held centrally and could be provided only at disproportionate cost.

Departmental Work Experience

Bridget Phillipson: To ask the Secretary of State for Business, Innovation and Skills pursuant to the answer to the hon. Member for Liverpool, Wavertree of 25 October 2010, Official Report, column 132W, on departmental work experience, what the level was of the training allowance paid to interns while working in his Department.

Edward Davey: The Department for Business, Innovation and Skills pays a training allowance of £350 per week to interns in London and £300 per week to interns outside London.

Departmental Work Experience

Bridget Phillipson: To ask the Secretary of State for Business, Innovation and Skills how many (a) persons undertaking unpaid work experience, (b) unpaid interns and (c) other persons in unpaid positions were working in his Department as of 1 July 2011.

Edward Davey: As of 1 July 2011, the position in the Department for Business, Innovation and Skills was as follows: (a) it has been normal practice for informal unpaid work experience placements to be offered to school children but these are not recorded centrally as they are normally of a very limited duration, (b) no unpaid interns and (c) no civil servants working in the Department who were not being paid.

Economic and Monetary Union: Payments

William Bain: To ask the Secretary of State for Business, Innovation and Skills if he will assess the potential benefits to economic growth in (a) the UK, (b) the Eurozone and (c) the EU of expansion of the Single European Payment Area.

Edward Davey: A study commissioned by the European Commission shows that the use of Single European Payment Area (SEPA) payment instruments holds a potential of up to €123 billion in benefits (cumulative over six years) for the European Union. When fully implemented, all parties (consumers, SMEs, other corporate) are shown to benefit while banks would retain their current margins. According to the same study, the full implementation would lead to gains annually for the UK of 0.15% of GDP. That would be between 0.08% and 0.17% of GDP for other countries of the European Union.
	The study by Capgemini is published under the title “SEPA: the benefits at stake” and available on the European Commission's website.

Electricians: Females

Chi Onwurah: To ask the Secretary of State for Business, Innovation and Skills what information his Department holds on the proportion of electricians who are women; and if he will make a statement.

Edward Davey: Estimates of employment by type of occupation are available from the Annual Production Survey (APS).
	Individuals' occupations are recorded in accordance with the Standard Occupational Classification (SOC) 2010. For the period January to December 2010 women accounted for 1% of the total number of people in employment in the SOC category ‘Electricians and electrical fitters’.
	As with any sample survey, estimates from the APS are subject to a margin of uncertainty.

Electronic Equipment: Waste Disposal

Anne Main: To ask the Secretary of State for Business, Innovation and Skills pursuant to the contribution by the Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Business, Innovation and Skills of 14 July 2011, Official Report, column 450, on regulation (EU Directives), when he expects the EU waste electrical and electronic equipment directive to be agreed; and what interim guidance he has given to industry on the existing directive.

Mark Prisk: I currently expect negotiations for the recast EU waste electrical and electronic equipment (WEEE) directive to be concluded by early 2012. My Department will continue to consult stakeholders for their views and inform them of progress as negotiations continue.
	Comprehensive guidance on compliance with the requirements of current UK WEEE regulations is available at:
	http://www.bis.gov.uk/weee

Employment: Overseas Investment

Martin Horwood: To ask the Secretary of State for Business, Innovation and Skills what estimate his Department has made of the (a) number of jobs and (b) share of the workforce that were (i) directly and (ii) indirectly dependent on the export of goods or services to other EU member states in (A) the latest period for which figures are available, (B) 2005, (C) 2000, (D) 1995, (E) 1990, (F) 1985 and (G) 1981; and if he will make a statement.

Edward Davey: holding answer 18 July 2011
	BIS has estimated that in 2006 3.5 million jobs were linked directly and indirectly to the UK's trade with the EU, representing around 12% of UK's work force. This is based on the assumption that the share of UK employment linked to trade with the EU is equal to the share of total UK value added generated in the production of goods exported to the EU.
	This is the most recent estimates available and no similar comparisons have been made over time.

EU Internal Trade

William Bain: To ask the Secretary of State for Business, Innovation and Skills what assessment his Department has made on the stage of completion of the single market in services and the digital economy.

Edward Davey: The Government believe that there continues to be scope to improve the single market in services. One important element of this should be to fully and effectively implement the services directive, which would boost EU GDP by 2.8%. The European Commission will produce a report by the end of this year on how well EU member states have implemented the directive to date and is also carrying out legal assessments (so-called "performance checks") to ensure that the services directive is working in practice. The UK will work closely with the European Commission to take forward this work.
	We also consider the digital economy as being of enormous economic significance and support many of the initiatives proposed by the European Commission in the 2010 Digital Agenda.
	Our priorities include: a EU copyright management system to create an improved market for intellectual property; encouraging private sector provision of a sustainable infrastructure capable of providing super-fast broadband connections for all UK citizens; and we have supported a package of measures to strengthen the consumer confidence to buy goods online, including a new consumer rights directive, the introduction of an alternative dispute resolution for online trading or a communication on the e-commerce directive.

Further Education: Offenders

David Evennett: To ask the Secretary of State for Business, Innovation and Skills what recent representations he has received from further education colleges regarding the provision of offender learning programmes.

John Hayes: I have had no representations from further education colleges recently about the provision of offender learning programmes.
	A number of further education colleges responded to the call for evidence which informed the review of offender learning I commissioned last year. I launched “Making Prisons Work: Skills for Rehabilitation”, the report on the review, at the Association of Colleges' offender learning conference in May, and took the opportunity whilst there to speak to representatives from further education colleges that provide offender learning. In addition, I have regular meetings with Martin Doel, chief executive of the Association of Colleges, and offender learning is often on our agenda.

Green Investment Bank

Huw Irranca-Davies: To ask the Secretary of State for Business, Innovation and Skills whether the Green Investment Bank will fund (a) proven and (b) emerging technologies to accelerate private sector investment in the UK's transition to a green economy.

Mark Prisk: The Green Investment Bank (GIB) will be an enduring financial institution, and as such it will need to make investments that are expected to make a positive return. The GIB will focus on mobilising additional capital into a wide range of green infrastructure and the deployment of late-stage technologies, and, while there are no plans for a wider role at this stage, this will remain subject to further review.

Higher Education: Admissions

Gareth Thomas: To ask the Secretary of State for Business, Innovation and Skills how many and what proportion of Higher Education Funding Council supported students entering university for the first time in England with the equivalent of A level grades of AAB or higher (a) were UK domiciled and (b) had studied at (i) independent schools, (ii) selective state schools and (iii) state schools or colleges in the last year for which figures are available; and if he will make a statement.

David Willetts: The following table shows the number of entrants in 2009/10 split by school type, AAB threshold and domicile. The table does not show students on medicine, dentistry or Postgraduate Certificate of Education (PGCE) courses.
	
		
			 AAB or above  (1) 
			 School type  (2) UK EU UK and EU total School type as percentage of total 
			 State school 36,500 210 36,710 66 
			 Not state school 11,755 95 11,850 21 
			 Unknown 2,465 4,895 7,360 13 
			 Grand total 50,720 5,200 55,920 100 
			      
			 Domicile as percentage of total 91 9 100 — 
			 (1) This total excludes entrants to medicine, dentistry or PGCE courses. (2) School type is taken from previous institution attended Higher Education Statistics Agency (HESA) field PREVINST). All schools or colleges that are not denoted ‘independent’ are assumed to be state schools. This means that students from sixth-form or further education colleges, for example, are included as being from state schools.

Higher Education: Admissions

Gareth Thomas: To ask the Secretary of State for Business, Innovation and Skills 
	(1)  if he will estimate the potential savings to higher education institutions of removing 20,000 non-AAB student places and offering them to institutions charging £7,500 or less per year in tuition fees; and if he will make a statement;
	(2)  if he will estimate the potential effects on the Government's education budget of removing 20,000 non-AAB student places and offering them to institutions charging £7,500 or less per year in tuition fees; and if he will make a statement.

David Willetts: We anticipate that this approach will exert a downward pressure on fees but it is not possible to specify precisely the impacts of this approach on either the Department's budgets or those of higher education institutions.

Higher Education: Leicestershire

Jonathan Ashworth: To ask the Secretary of State for Business, Innovation and Skills how many colleges with 1,000 or more full-time students he expects to be awarded university status in (a) Leicester City local authority area and (b) Leicestershire and Rutland.

David Willetts: As part of a technical consultation following the publication of the Higher Education White Paper, the Government are currently consulting on the future criteria for university title. The consultation asks for views on the following possible future criteria for gaining university title, consisting of:
	Holding Taught Degree Awarding Powers;
	At least 1,000 full-time equivalent higher education students, of which at least 750 are studying for a degree;
	More than 50% of the full-time equivalent overall student body are studying for a degree; and
	Having regard to the principles of good governance in the sector.
	The consultation is open until 27 October and is available at:
	http://discuss.bis.gov.uk/hereform/technical-consultation/
	The likelihood of any institution gaining university title in future will depend on the outcomes of this consultation, the final criteria we decide to apply and whether those criteria are met.

Intellectual Property

Mike Weatherley: To ask the Secretary of State for Business, Innovation and Skills whether he has any plans to discourage intellectual property businesses from leaving the UK.

Edward Davey: The Government have broadly accepted the 10 recommendations made by the review of intellectual property and growth led by Professor Ian Hargreaves and will begin consultations on their implementation in the autumn. These proposals will modernise the UK intellectual property system and enable businesses reliant on intellectual property to attract investment, develop new products and services and compete internationally.
	The Intellectual Property Office is working with Treasury on the design of the Patent Box tax regime, a key initiative which will improve the competitiveness of the UK corporate tax regime for companies which develop and exploit intellectual property. This will provide an additional incentive for companies in the UK to retain and commercialise existing patents and to develop new innovative patented products.

Intellectual Property

Mike Weatherley: To ask the Secretary of State for Business, Innovation and Skills whether he has any plans to commission a review of intellectual property in the next 12 months.

Edward Davey: In “The Plan for Growth” published on 23 March the Government made a commitment that following the completion of the Hargreaves Review,
	"no further broad reviews of intellectual property would be conducted during the lifetime of this Parliament."
	The Government have not changed their position on this matter.
	Following the publication on 3 August of "The Government Response to the Hargreaves Review of Intellectual Property and Growth" the Government will launch their programme of consultation in the autumn. The response broadly accepted all of the Hargreaves recommendations and the Government will be seeking views on how the recommendations should be implemented.

Overseas Students: EU Nationals

Gareth Thomas: To ask the Secretary of State for Business, Innovation and Skills what his latest estimate is of the Resource Accounting Budget charge for student fee loans for EU students studying in England under (a) the current fee system and (b) the fee system for academic year 2012-13, taking into account any change in EU student numbers; and if he will make a statement.

David Willetts: The Government's current estimate of the Resource Accounting and Budgeting (RAB) charge is around 30% for student loans issued under both the current fee system and the system for academic year 2012/13 onwards. There is no separate RAB charge for EU students.

Students: Loans

Gareth Thomas: To ask the Secretary of State for Business, Innovation and Skills how many complaints he has received about career development loans taken out with (a) Barclays and (b) other financial service providers to participate in courses approved by the Learning and Skills Council or its successor bodies in the last 10 years; and if he will make a statement.

John Hayes: The Department shares relevant Professional and Career Development Loans (PCDLs) correspondence with both the Young People's Learning Agency, who are responsible for the administering the programme, and the respective bank(s). This ensures that any issues are sufficiently addressed with responses being provided by the most suitable partner. The correspondence covers a range of areas including questions about the parameters of the programme and comments when an individual has not had an application approved. We are able to provide data on the overall number of PCDL correspondence received by the Department and the Young People's Learning Agency in recent years.
	Since April 2007, when the Young People's Learning Agency (then Learning and Skills Council) assumed operational responsibility for PCDLs, around 250,000 application forms have been sent out to interested individuals. In the same period, there has only been 275 pieces of correspondence submitted to the Young People's Learning Agency regarding PCDLs. The Department's PCDL policy team has dealt with 40 letters since PCDLs replaced career development loans in July 2009. In total, there have been 27 parliamentary questions raised in regard to the programme.
	From September 2011, the responsibility for administering the programme and the contractual relationships with the banks resides with the Skills Funding Agency.
	The lending banks deal with any direct complaints through their own procedures. All complaints are aggregated to business unit level and figures are not available on a product-specific basis to the Department. It is therefore not possible to provide details on the specific number of complaints that the banks have received that relate to PCDLs.

Supermarkets: Competition

Zac Goldsmith: To ask the Secretary of State for Business, Innovation and Skills whether he has considered the merits of referring the matter of the level of competition between supermarkets and small independent retailers to the Competition Commission.

Edward Davey: No. Referrals to the Competition Commission are normally made by the Office of Fair Trading, who need reasonably to suspect market features restrict, prevent or distort competition.

Third Sector

Dan Jarvis: To ask the Secretary of State for Business, Innovation and Skills what the name is of each charity and voluntary organisation Ministers in his Department have visited since 12 May 2010.

Edward Davey: holding answer 19 July 2011
	This information is not readily available and cannot be obtained without incurring disproportionate cost.

Trade Agreements

William Bain: To ask the Secretary of State for Business, Innovation and Skills what assessment his Department has made of the potential benefits to economic growth and trade of bilateral free trade agreements with (a) India, (b) Canada, (c) Japan, (d) Mercosur and (e) the Asean nations.

Edward Davey: Concluding ambitious Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) with India, Canada, Japan, Mercosur and ASEAN countries would bring substantial economic gains to the EU and the UK. European Commission impact assessments available at:
	http://ec.europa.eu/trade/analysis/sustainability-impact-assessments/assessments/
	show that the potential benefits to the EU from these FTAs would range from a few billion to over 30 billion Euros per year. The UK would gain a significant proportion of these benefits.

Trade: EU Countries

Martin Horwood: To ask the Secretary of State for Business, Innovation and Skills what estimate his Department has made of the effect on (a) national and (b) household income of trade with other EU member states in each year since 1981; and if he will make a statement.

Edward Davey: holding answer 18 July 2011
	There is no estimate available for the effect of trade with EU member states on UK national income as the consequences of the counterfactual, the absence of trade with these countries, are particularly difficult to establish. However, there is no doubt that the single market is important to the UK's prosperity: it gives UK business access to the world's largest market with 500 million people generating about £10 trillion economic activity. EU countries account for half of the UK's overall trade and foreign investments. As a result, around 3.5 million jobs in the UK are linked to the export of goods and services to the EU. Available estimates show that the greater level of trade liberalisation achieved through the single market leads EU countries to trading currently twice as much with each other as they would do otherwise. As a result, the single market may be responsible for income gains in the UK between 2% and 6%, that is between £1,100 and £3,300 a year per British household.
	The Department for Business, Innovation and Skills is publishing a series of economic studies on trade related issues, as part of its work on the Trade and Investment White Paper. As these are being published, they are available in the Libraries of both Houses.

UK Trade and Investment

Alan Johnson: To ask the Secretary of State for Business, Innovation and Skills whether his Department has issued directions to staff in (a) UK Trade and Investment and (b) Business Links on communications with hon. Members about potential (i) job losses and (ii) organisational changes within each organisation.

Mark Prisk: holding answer 5 September 2011
	The Department has not issued any directions to staff in regional Business Links or in UK Trade & Investment about communications with hon. Members about potential job losses or organisational changes.

York College: Finance

Hugh Bayley: To ask the Secretary of State for Business, Innovation and Skills what funding was allocated to York College by the Skills Funding Agency, Young People's Learning Agency and their predecessor in (a) cash and (b) real terms in each year since 2005.

John Hayes: The following table shows the participation funding that has been allocated to York College by the Young People's Learning Agency (YPLA), the Skills Funding Agency (“the Agency”) and their predecessor, the Learning and Skills Council (LSC), in each of the years requested, alongside the corresponding real terms value of these allocations.
	
		
			 York College—Funding allocations 2004/05 to 2010/11 
			 £ 
			  Academic year Cash allocation  (1) Real terms  (2) 
			 Skills Funding Agency/YPLA 2010/11 £20,952,651 £20,952,651 
			 Transition from LSC to Agency and YPLA    
			 Learning and Skills Council 2009/10 £18,183,990 £18,723,219 
			  2008/09 £18,371,393 £19,224,178 
			  2007/08 £18,240,652 £19,615,503 
			  2006/07 £16,735,817 £18,512,867 
			  2005/06 £16,207,629 £18,530,417 
			  2004/05 £15,519,000 £18,064,884 
			 (1 )Source: YPLA, LSC and Agency allocation data for 16-18 and 19+ participation. (2) These figures have been calculated using HM Treasury Deflators, last updated 28 June 2011.